Attack in the ICE: 20-year-old violates passengers with a hammer and ax!

Attack in the ICE: 20-year-old violates passengers with a hammer and ax!

On Thursday, July 3, 2025, an worrying incident occurred in an ICE between Regensburg and Plattling when a 20-year-old Syrian passengers attacked with a hammer and an ax. The young man, who is registered in Austria near Vienna, injured four people, including three compatriots aged 15, 24 and 51. The nationality of the fourth victim, a 38-year passenger, remains unknown for the time being. Bavaria's Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann confirmed the events and emphasized that the Bavarian and Austrian authorities work closely together to clarify the incident. The Tagesspiegel was known to the police and other checks in other federal states.

The dangerous situation on the train ensured quick reactions. Several passengers operated the emergency reservation, which meant that the ICE came to a standstill in Straßkirchen. The travelers overwhelmed the perpetrator and stole a gun with which they then hit him. The attacker was "injured somewhat seriously" and is now in police custody, but receives medical treatment. He is not in mortal danger, and the injured suffered only slight injuries. t-online adds that the exact motives for the attack are currently still unclear.

reaction and security situation

The police were quickly on site, supported by numerous rescue workers and two helicopters. A supervisor for passengers was set up, which were understandably shaken after the incident. Deutsche Bahn expressed its sympathy for all those affected and thanked the emergency services for the rapid arrest of the suspect.

This incident is part of the alarming numbers on violent crime in Germany. According to current data, violent crimes are only responsible for less than 4 % of all police crimes, but they have a strong influence on people's feeling of security. Statista reports an increase in violent crimes, with about 217,000 registered cases in 2024, which is the highest number since 2007. It is worrying that the proportion of young violent offenders increases and a major problem is seen in public perception.

It remains to be seen whether and what further knowledge about the attacker's motif comes to light. Regardless of this, the incident is further tragic proof of how important security in public space is and that discussions still need how to better protect the population from such violent acts.