Six Killed in Shooting at Youth Welfare Facility in Northern Germany, Suspect Arrested

BERLIN: At least six people were killed and several others injured in a shooting at a youth welfare facility in the northern German town of Stade, with authorities arresting the suspected gunman and launching an investigation into the motive behind the attack.

According to police, the shooting occurred at a facility on Dankersstrasse that provides temporary accommodation for pregnant women and young mothers with children. Five victims died at the scene, while a sixth later succumbed to injuries in hospital. Several other people were wounded, some of them seriously.

Police arrested the main suspect shortly after the attack. Two other individuals were also taken into custody for questioning over possible involvement, although authorities have not disclosed further details about their roles. Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Investigators believe the shooting may have been linked to a child custody dispute, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Authorities are working to establish the sequence of events and determine the motive behind one of Germany’s deadliest shootings in recent years.

Emergency services, forensic investigators, and a large police contingent responded to the scene, while local authorities extended condolences to the victims’ families and pledged full support for the ongoing investigation.