Driver Suspected of Mental Health Issues in German Incident
Authorities in central Germany have indicated that a driver involved in an event where multiple pedestrians were hurt might be experiencing mental health problems. On Tuesday, police and prosecutors in Giessen stated there is no indication the act was politically driven or related to terrorism.
"No reliable information can be provided at this time regarding the exact motive for the crime, as the suspect made only incoherent statements shortly after his arrest," investigators reported.
According to officials, on Monday afternoon, a 32-year-old motorist switched lanes and collided at high velocity with a stationary vehicle. This impact propelled the car toward a bus shelter, striking a 64-year-old woman waiting there and causing severe injuries.
The driver then proceeded "unperturbed," partly on the sidewalk, lightly injuring two more individuals. His journey ended when he hit another parked car, after which a 29-year-old man held him until law enforcement arrived.
The suspect, an Azerbaijani national residing in Giessen, faces investigations for attempted murder, dangerous interference with road traffic, and grievous bodily harm. Investigators noted signs of acute psychosis, and a psychiatric expert has been appointed to assess him.
An accident investigator is also involved to determine the precise sequence of events. Nearby, the town's Christmas market continued operations despite the proximity to the incident.
