A Saudi psychiatrist with a history of controversial views has been identified as the perpetrator of the deadly attack at Magdeburg’s Christmas market, which left at least five dead, including a toddler, and over 200 injured.
The tragedy unfolded on the evening of December 20, when 50-year-old Taleb al-Abdulmohsen rammed his dark BMW into a packed crowd of holiday shoppers.
The suspect, who arrived in Germany as a refugee in 2006, had posted alarming messages on social media months before the attack, including a chilling tweet suggesting that “slaughtering German citizens indiscriminately” might be a “path to justice.”
The Suspect’s Troubling Background
Al-Abdulmohsen, a specialist in psychiatry and psychotherapy from Hofuf, Saudi Arabia, was known for his outspoken criticism of Islam after renouncing the faith. His social media activity revealed support for Germany’s far-right AfD party, Elon Musk, and controversial figures like Tommy Robinson and Alex Jones. He frequently criticized German authorities, accusing them of enabling “the Islamism of Europe.”
In a 2019 interview with the Frankfurter Rundschau, the doctor described his efforts to help Saudi asylum seekers escape oppressive regimes. Despite his advocacy, he harbored resentment toward Germany, alleging discrimination against ex-Muslims and persecution by authorities.
Rampage at the Christmas Market
Witnesses described chaos as the black BMW tore through the market, traveling approximately 400 meters and leaving a trail of destruction. Eyewitness Thi Linh Chi Nguyen recalled, “The car sped through the crowd, throwing a child into the air. It was like a war zone.” Emergency responders worked through the night to assist the injured.
Bystander footage showed al-Abdulmohsen lying next to the wrecked car before his arrest. Police later raided his home in Bernburg, where evidence, including the rented vehicle, was seized.
Social Media Red Flags
Months before the attack, al-Abdulmohsen tweeted disturbing messages, including: “Is there a path to justice in Germany without bombing a German embassy or slaughtering German citizens indiscriminately?” He also alleged mail tampering and accused Germans of being complicit in his perceived persecution.
Al-Abdulmohsen’s social media contained graphic retweets and extremist rhetoric, painting a picture of growing resentment. Hours before the attack, he claimed authorities were sabotaging him, fueling speculation about his mental state and motivations.
Germany Mourns and Reacts
The attack has plunged Magdeburg, a city of 240,000, into mourning. Mourners gathered at St. John’s Church to light candles and lay flowers. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser visited the scene and attended a memorial service at Magdeburg Cathedral.
“This horrific act shatters the peace of the holiday season,” Scholz said. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
The tragedy has sparked debates on migration and security, with calls for heightened vigilance at public events. Some towns have canceled Christmas markets in solidarity, while Berlin increased security measures.
International Condemnation
Global leaders expressed shock and sympathy. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, “We stand with the people of Germany in this dark hour.” Saudi Arabia condemned the attack, affirming its rejection of violence.
As investigations continue, German authorities have yet to establish an official motive but confirmed al-Abdulmohsen acted alone. Saxony-Anhalt Governor Reiner Haseloff declared, “Every life lost in this senseless act is one too many.”
A Tradition Marred
The Magdeburg Christmas market, a centuries-old tradition, now bears the scars of a senseless tragedy. As Germany grieves, the nation is left grappling with the aftermath of a devastating act that has forever altered the spirit of the holiday season.
