Terror at Hamburg Central Station: 17 Injured, 6 Critically, as Lone Attacker Goes on Stabbing Rampage at Germany’s Busiest Rail Hub
HAMBURG, Germany (May 23, 2025) — A peaceful Friday evening turned into a scene of chaos and terror at Hamburg Central Station when a mass stabbing attack erupted, leaving 17 people injured—six of them critically. The attack unfolded around 6:00 p.m. local time on a crowded platform between tracks 13 and 14, disrupting thousands of commuters and prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Police have arrested a 39-year-old German woman in connection with the stabbing. Authorities say the suspect acted alone, and no further threat to the public is currently believed to exist. Investigators are working to determine her motive.
Horrifying Scene on Platform 13
Witnesses described a chilling moment of panic as the assailant began attacking people seemingly at random. The assault took place in front of an Intercity-Express (ICE) train that had just arrived and had its doors open. Some passengers fled the platform in terror, while others attempted to shield themselves or assist the wounded.
Emergency services, including dozens of paramedics, police officers, and firefighters, rushed to the scene within minutes. Hamburg’s fire and rescue department confirmed that six of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries. Three others were seriously wounded, and another three were treated for minor injuries. Additional victims suffered psychological trauma and received on-site support.
Immediate Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The suspect was taken into custody without resistance and transported to a secure location. Her identity has not been publicly disclosed beyond her age and nationality. According to police officials, there is currently no evidence that suggests a broader conspiracy or involvement of additional suspects.
Authorities cordoned off large areas of the station, temporarily closing four train tracks and rerouting multiple Deutsche Bahn long-distance and regional services. The disruption affected thousands of passengers at what is Germany’s busiest train station, which sees an average of over 550,000 travelers each day.
Security Concerns Raised
The attack has raised urgent questions about security at transportation hubs. Although knives and other weapons are banned at Hamburg Central Station and on most public transportation in Germany, the assailant managed to carry out a brutal assault despite these restrictions.
Security experts and transportation officials are reviewing protocols and surveillance systems. The station is equipped with extensive CCTV coverage, and footage is being analyzed by Hamburg’s criminal police as part of the ongoing investigation.
Community and Government Reactions
Deutsche Bahn, the national railway operator, issued a statement expressing “deep shock and concern” over the violent incident and assured the public of its full cooperation with law enforcement.
Hamburg Mayor Peter Tschentscher addressed the media late Friday night, saying, “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We will do everything we can to support those affected and to understand how such a tragedy could occur in one of our busiest public spaces.”
He praised first responders for their rapid and professional actions that likely prevented further casualties.
Appeal for Calm and Information
Police have urged the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation progresses. “We understand the public’s desire for answers,” said Police Commissioner Ralf Martin Meyer, “but it is critical that we allow the investigation to unfold methodically and based on verified facts.”
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the attack or has video footage from the station around the time of the incident to come forward. Witness testimony is being prioritized as officials work to piece together a complete timeline of events.
Looking Ahead
As investigators sift through evidence and conduct interviews, the city of Hamburg is left grappling with the aftermath of a violent act in one of its most vital public spaces. Mental health professionals have been dispatched to assist traumatized witnesses and victims, and a public memorial is expected to be held in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the suspect remains in custody, and prosecutors are expected to announce formal charges soon. For now, questions linger about the suspect’s motive, mental state, and how such an attack could occur at the heart of a heavily monitored transportation hub.
Law enforcement officials have vowed to provide regular updates as the investigation continues.