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Death of Lorenz A.: Police investigations are criticized!
Fatal police operation in Oldenburg: Lorenz A. was shot, investigations are ongoing. Protests against police violence break out.
Death of Lorenz A.: Police investigations are criticized!
On the night of Easter Sunday, 29-year-old Lorenz A. was shot by a 27-year-old police officer in the pedestrian zone of Oldenburg. This incident, which occurred on April 20, 2025, continues to preoccupy people. The fatal argument was preceded by serious events: Lorenz A. had used irritant gas in a discotheque and was carrying a knife. The police officer fired five shots and hit Lorenz A. at least three times from behind - his upper body, hip and head were targeted. But the reasons for these ambush shots remain unclear. The public prosecutor's office has now launched an investigation into manslaughter against the officer, while the mother's lawyer, Lea Voigt, sharply criticized the authorities' approach.
Three points of criticism of the ongoing investigation are particularly in focus: Firstly, the cell phone of the second police officer was not confiscated or evaluated, and no witness interviews were carried out with the police officers who arrived after the shooting. A re-enactment of the event does not appear to have been carried out either. The Oldenburg public prosecutor's office has not yet commented on these critical comments. The decision on possible charges should be made by next week.
Protests and demands for clarification
The incident sparked nationwide protests. Demonstrators loudly demand a complete investigation into what happened and criticize the alleged police violence and the strong structural racism. The Initiative Black People in Germany (ISD) brings the issue into a broader context by pointing out how much the death of Lorenz A. is also linked to institutional structures of discrimination. The death of his peer, Nelson, who died in a correctional facility in early August 2025, also highlights the dangers that racialized people face, including in state custody.
Yvonne Esi Müller, a committed community organizer, addresses the invisible burdens that people feel due to racism and discrimination. These stresses manifest themselves in a constant feeling of fear and insecurity. At the same time, the question of the value of life and justice remains in the room, which is becoming increasingly urgent given the reality of life.
Structural problems in the police
The incident adds to a worrying development supported by numerous reports of racism within police departments. A recent study shows that around a third of police officers in Germany have either witnessed or been affected by racist and sexist comments. What is particularly alarming is the rise in anti-Muslim attitudes within the police, which have increased since the last surveys. The police union (GdP) also criticizes the growing staff shortage, which is putting additional strain on officers.
In this situation, Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser is calling for “zero tolerance” towards any form of racism and extremism within the police. There is an increasing debate about reforming police power and the responsibility of the authorities in order to restore trust in the security forces and combat structural inequality.
The demands for a safe and humane life are loud and clear: Citizens hope for a comprehensive and independent explanation of what happened, which can bring some justice and recognition not only to Lorenz A., but also to many other people affected.