The public prosecution service in Gießen, Hesse, is investigating a 32-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder following a deliberate vehicular attack on a bus stop Monday. While initial anxieties centered on a potential politically motivated or terrorist act, authorities have stated that no such evidence has emerged at this stage.
The man, a previously unconvicted Azerbaijani national residing in Gießen, now faces charges of attempted murder, reckless endangerment of road traffic and aggravated assault. He is expected to be brought before a judge for assessment and potential transfer to a psychiatric facility, reflecting concerns regarding his mental state.
According to investigators, the suspect initially swerved into oncoming traffic before accelerating into a parked vehicle. The impact propelled the vehicle forwards, striking a 64-year-old pedestrian waiting at the bus stop, leaving her with serious injuries. Following the initial collision, the suspect continued his erratic journey, reportedly using sidewalks and collided with another parked car. Two additional individuals sustained minor injuries during this sequence of events. Prior to crossing into oncoming traffic, the suspect had reportedly made contact with several other vehicles, causing minor injuries to two occupants.
A 29-year-old resident of Gießen intervened and detained the driver until police arrived. The suspect’s actions have drawn considerable public attention and raised anxieties about public safety.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, which includes a psychiatric evaluation ordered by the prosecution, prompted by indications of an acute psychotic episode. An accident reconstruction expert has also been commissioned to analyze the sequence of events.
The precise motivation behind the attack remains unclear. Preliminary questioning of the suspect immediately following his apprehension yielded what officials described as “disconnected statements” hindering attempts to establish a clear motive. The lack of a discernible political or ideological rationale underscores the complexities of the case and intensifies scrutiny of the suspect’s mental health and potential underlying issues. The incident has reignited debate regarding the assessment and management of individuals with potential mental health vulnerabilities within the German legal system.