Six people died in shooting at shelter for mothers,children in Stade,northern Germany,Monday . Police have identified 45-year-old man as suspect,who reportedly opened fire during custody dispute. Attack unfolded just after noon,following his appointment at facility.
Victims—all shelter employees—included four women,two men . The man's three-month-old daughter,her mother unharmed . After shooting,police arrested suspected gunman,along with two others . No ongoing threat to public,they confirmed.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed shock,saying,“I’m deeply shocked by extent of violence in place meant to provide protection.” Shooting happened on cobbled street lined with red-brick homes . Police sealed off area as forensic teams began investigation.
Emergency responders said five victims died at scene,while sixth later died in hospital . Video showed police detaining two in vehicle with damaged tire,indicating quick reaction to crisis.
Suspected shooter,with Turkish roots,lives in Hannover area,born in Germany. Mass shootings rare here,unlike U.S . In 2023,Hamburg gunman killed six before taking own life at Jehovah’s Witness hall. In 2016,18-year-old German-Iranian attacker killed nine in Munich.
As probe continues,focus is on custody issues possibly behind attack . Police say no immediate threat to community now. Life resumes,but questions linger…
