Solingen Stabbing Rampage: Syrian Suspect Arrested After Deadly Festival Attack

A 26-year-old Syrian man was arrested early Sunday in connection with a brutal stabbing spree in Solingen, Germany, that left three dead and eight injured during a festival celebrating the city’s 650th anniversary. The suspect, who turned himself in to authorities, is under investigation as police continue to probe his involvement and possible motives, including a potential terrorist connection.

The attack occurred Friday night in Solingen’s central square, where thousands had gathered for the festival. Witnesses described the assailant indiscriminately stabbing people near the stage, with many of the victims sustaining injuries to their throats. The attack, which lasted only minutes, caused chaos and panic, with blood reportedly visible across the square.

Authorities initially detained two other individuals, including a 15-year-old suspected of failing to report the crime, but later identified the Syrian man as the primary suspect. Police discovered at least one weapon at the scene, now under forensic analysis.

Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed shock at the “terrible event,” emphasizing the urgency of capturing and prosecuting the perpetrator. The festival was immediately canceled, as were other local events.

The Solingen stabbing is part of a troubling rise in knife violence across Germany, prompting renewed calls for stricter weapon laws. As the investigation continues, the city mourns the victims and grapples with the aftermath of this shocking and senseless attack.