Fatal A7 accident: Police looking for witnesses after bridge demonstration!

Fatal A7 accident: Police looking for witnesses after bridge demonstration!

A horrific accident on the A7 near Bollingstedt has reignited concerns about safety during demonstrations on motorway bridges. On Friday, October 10, 2025, a 54-year-old driver from Cologne died after a truck crashed into her vehicle. The incident occurred around 9:10 p.m. in the immediate vicinity of a bridge, where around 20 people were demonstrating for their concerns under the motto “Save the middle class”.

The police report that the accident may be related to the demonstration that was taking place at the same time. An expert examined the accident site and the skid marks on October 15, 2025, while investigations to clarify what happened continue. A call for witnesses has been launched; information can be given to the Schleswig motorway district on (04621) 945 20.

Security concerns and political reactions

The SPD responded immediately to the accident. The SPD politician Niclas Dürbrook expressed sharp criticism of demonstrations on motorway bridges, which he described as a security risk. He calls for a ban on such gatherings, especially after dark, as high speeds and distractions caused by demonstrations would not go together. Dürbrook plans to raise the issue in the Interior and Legal Affairs Committee. The SPD parliamentary group will discuss details of the criteria according to which assembly authorities make decisions at a meeting of the Ministry of the Interior.

The Schleswig-Flensburg district has already reacted and banned further gatherings on the bridge until further notice. However, the organizers of the planned actions have stated that they do not want to plan any further demonstrations for the time being. This is happening not least due to pressure from the regulatory authorities, who have banned bright lights, banners and flags on the railings.

Demonstrations in Germany

In Germany, the right to express one's opinion and the right to peaceful assembly are fundamental rights enshrined in the Basic Law. However, according to the provisions of the Assembly Act, there are rules that must be observed when holding meetings. The police are tasked with protecting both the right to demonstrate and ensuring public safety. Tensions can also arise in conflictual situations.

It is important to emphasize that not all forms of protest are permitted and certain behaviors may be considered criminal offenses. Dealing with roadblocks, for example, can lead to coercion or negligent bodily harm if it impedes emergency services. The police advise people to demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence and crime.

The incident on the A7 not only raises questions about road safety, but also about the organization and implementation of demonstrations. It remains to be seen whether the tragic accident will ultimately represent a turning point in the debate about demonstrations on motorway bridges.

For further information on the topic and rights during demonstrations, the police website can be visited: polizei-beratung.de. The reports about the accident can be found at ndr.de and kn-online.de.