Berlin Attack: Death Toll up to 12, ISIS Claims Responsibility
- Updated Dec 20, 2016
Yesterday afternoon, a tractor-trailer rammed into a crowd of people gathered at a Christmas market in Berlin, Germany. The death toll has now risen to 12 people, with 48 injured.
The vehicle rammed into the Christmas shoppers in what witnesses said was a premeditated attack.
"A truck just ran over a sidewalk at #Breitscheidplatz Our colleague report multiple injuries. more to follow," Berlin police tweeted, following the event.
Police have since detained a suspect, whom they say may not be the driver of the truck. The investigation is ongoing into a possible act of terrorism.
The New York Post reports that the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack and that this attack is reminiscent of the vehicle-related terrorist attack in Nice, France last July.
German chancellor Angela Merkel visited the site of the attack today.
NPR spoke with an American resident in Germany who said that Christmas markets are very common in Germany, with 70 in Berlin alone. The markets are popular places for people to gather during the holidays to buy Christmas gifts, cookies, and cider and to enjoy the festive spirit.
Photo courtesy: Thinkstockphotos.com
Publication date: December 20, 2016
