In brief
Police responded to a violent attack in Stade that claimed six lives at a centre for mothers and children. The suspect, a 45‑year‑old Turkish national, was in a custody dispute with the centre’s staff and allegedly used a rifle. All victims were adults; a child and her mother were unharmed, though several others were injured. Authorities detained the gunman and another person, concluding there was no broader threat to the public. The incident has raised concerns about gun control, personal security and legal custody arrangements in Germany.
Six people killed in a shooting at a centre for mothers and children in Stade
Six people have been fatally shot at a centre for mothers and children in the northern German city of Stade, according to local police.
The victims, four women and two men, all worked at the facility. Sensational footage shows several wounded individuals as police swarmed the building.
Early on the day that night, a three‑month‑old baby and her mother were present at the office of the centre, but both survived unscathed, officials confirmed.
The gunman was identified as a 45‑year‑old Turkish national, born in Germany, who lived in Hanover. Police say he had an appointment with the centre’s staff to discuss the custody of his daughter.
He was known to law‑enforcement for earlier threats, but had no firearms licence. After the shooting, he fled in a vehicle driven by a woman, only to be confronted by police who fired at the car as it approached a roadblock.
Police, who are still investigating, have ruled out any political or economic motive behind the incident, describing it as "an act of violence carried out in an extremely cold‑blooded manner".
Stade, a town of roughly 50,000 residents, is located about 30 kilometres west of Hamburg. The event has triggered calls for tighter scrutiny of gun access and strengthened support for families in custody disputes.
Community response
Local residents and former sprayers have spoken to journalists, sharing their shock and calling for greater safety measures at minority‑support centres.
Many children at nearby schools and daycares were safely evacuated, and parents have been advised to contact local authorities for further instructions.
The investigation continues; any public videos or additional evidence may be critical in understanding the motive.
