Sky News presenter Jayne Secker interrupted the channel's regular programming to deliver a tragic update: six people had been killed in a shooting at a youth facility in Stade, Germany. The announcement came during a live broadcast, with Secker reading a breaking news bulletin.
Details of the Incident
Secker stated: "Now, a story that has broken in the last few hours, German police say that six people have died, and several have been wounded after a shooting at a youth facility in the North German city of Stade, which is west of Hamburg." She added that all six deceased are believed to be adults. Local police confirmed to Sky News that two suspects have been detained, including the suspected gunman, and there is no more danger to the public.
As images from the scene were broadcast, Secker continued: "These are the latest pictures that we have from the city. We will bring you further updates on them as we get them."
Police Response and Investigation
A major police operation is underway in the Lower Saxony town after officers responded to reports of multiple shots fired in the Dankersstraße area. Police have described the incident as a "homicide in a youth welfare facility," while German newspaper WELT, citing news agency dpa, reports that all victims were adults.
The shooting occurred at a youth welfare facility on Dankersstraße, a street south of Stade's centre. The facility includes temporary accommodation for pregnant women or young mothers with children. Stade Police initially confirmed five people had suffered fatal injuries and several others were wounded. Officers earlier described the situation as "dynamic" and urged the public to stay away from the area.
The motive for the attack remains unclear, and investigations are continuing. Shots were fired just after midday local time, followed by a brief car chase before officers stopped the suspect and a second person who accompanied him.
Witness Account and Public Warning
Vitali Mertens, who lives across the street from the scene, told the Associated Press that he heard gunshots and "the whole area was cordoned off right away." He added that "the police sent me away."
Police also warned that unconfirmed information and rumours about the shooting are being shared on WhatsApp groups and social media, urging the public to rely on official updates from Stade Police.
