Six people have been killed after a gunman reportedly stormed a welfare home for pregnant women and young mothers in Stade, Germany. Four women and a man were found dead inside the centre on Dankersstrasse, while another adult died later in hospital. Several more victims were wounded, some fighting for their lives, after shots rang out.
Suspect Arrested
Police have arrested a main suspect, while two others were subject to 'police measures' on suspicion of involvement. Officers continue to swarm the street, with terrified neighbours describing hearing gunfire before the area was sealed off, according to the Daily Star.
Witness Accounts
'The whole area was cordoned off right away,' said Vitali Mertens, who lives across the street and heard gunshots. Roughly 50,000 people live in Stade, about 25 miles from Hamburg.
Police Statement
In a statement, the police force said: 'According to the current state of the investigation, a homicide occurred at a youth care facility on Dankersstraße, resulting in multiple victims. Five people were fatally injured, and others sustained injuries. As part of the immediate search and police operation, two suspected perpetrators, including the alleged shooter, were arrested. The investigation into the background and the exact sequence of events is ongoing.'
Misinformation Warning
Police also warned of misinformation being shared on social media. They added: 'The circulating accounts do not correspond to the current state of affairs confirmed by the police. Please do not forward unverified reports, voice messages or rumours. This can cause uncertainty and hinder police action.'
Context
Germany's gun laws are more restrictive than those in the United States, and mass shootings are rare but not unheard of.
