Pope Francis mourns victims of deadly Christmas market attack in Germany

Pope Francis expressed deep sorrow over a tragic attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, eastern Germany, which claimed five lives, including that of a child, and injured more than 200 people on December 21.

In a telegram addressed to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveyed the pope’s “spiritual closeness” to those affected.

The Holy Father prayed for the deceased, entrusting them to Christ, and expressed gratitude to emergency responders for assisting victims during this difficult time. 

Authorities reported 205 victims in total, with four adults and a nine-year-old child among the dead, while 41 people suffered serious or life-threatening injuries. 

The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Taleb A. from Saudi Arabia, drove a black rental car into crowds at the market. 

Granted asylum in Germany in 2016, he had previously worked as a psychotherapist but had recently exhibited erratic behavior on social media, including threats of violence. 

Although the incident is being investigated as an attack, Chief Public Prosecutor Horst Walter Nopens stated it remains unclear if it qualifies as an act of terrorism. 

The site lacked concrete barriers, which have been used to secure public events in Germany following similar attacks, such as the 2016 Berlin Christmas market tragedy that left 12 dead. 

In response, St. Sebastian’s Cathedral in Magdeburg opened for prayer and reflection, and a memorial service was held Saturday evening. 

Bishop Gerhard Feige of Magdeburg and the German Bishops’ Conference president, Bishop Georg Bätzing, expressed their grief and solidarity, condemning the act as especially heinous during a season celebrating God’s love and human dignity. 

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser visited the city to meet with local officials and pay their respects at the site of the attack.