Afghan National Arrested After Deadly Knife Attack in German Park
Two Killed, Including Toddler, in Aschaffenburg Stabbing Incident
A 28-year-old Afghan man has been arrested in connection with a fatal knife attack in Aschaffenburg, Germany, that claimed the lives of a 41-year-old man and a two-year-old child. Two other individuals sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
The attack took place around 10:45 GMT on Wednesday in Schoental Park, a scenic green space in the Bavarian city. Authorities confirmed that the suspect, a former asylum-seeker who had been slated for deportation, was apprehended at the scene.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the attack as an "act of terror" and called for urgent explanations as to why the perpetrator had not yet been deported. “I am tired of these repeated acts of violence by individuals who sought protection here,” Scholz stated. “We cannot afford misplaced tolerance. Authorities must swiftly investigate why this attacker was still in Germany.”
The incident has reignited political debate over immigration and asylum policies, just weeks ahead of the 23 February parliamentary elections. Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), described the attack as deeply concerning, insisting, “This situation cannot continue. We must restore law and order.” Meanwhile, Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), called for immediate deportation measures, declaring, “Remigration now!”
Local media reports suggest the suspect specifically targeted a group of young children from a daycare centre visiting the park. He was reportedly living in a nearby asylum facility, and some outlets have indicated he had received treatment for psychological issues.
Authorities have confirmed that there are no additional suspects and that the public is not at further risk.
This tragedy follows a series of violent incidents in Germany, including last month’s car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, which resulted in six deaths and nearly 200 injuries. In response to such attacks, the German government has tightened restrictions on carrying knives in public spaces, reduced benefits for asylum seekers, and introduced measures to accelerate deportations for those with rejected asylum claims.