A shooting at a youth welfare facility in Stade, northern Germany, resulted in the deaths of six individuals on Monday. The incident occurred around midday, with authorities confirming that the victims, four women and two men, were employees of the facility or associated organizations. Five victims were declared dead at the scene, while a sixth succumbed to injuries later at a hospital, according to reports from The Associated Press.
Several others sustained injuries during the shooting, which may be linked to a child custody dispute. The suspect, a 45-year-old man, had visited the facility earlier that day. His three-month-old daughter and the child's mother were reported to be safe. The suspect was taken into custody, and police indicated that two additional individuals were also being investigated for possible involvement.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his shock at the violence, stating that it occurred in a place intended to provide safety for women and children. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and thanked first responders. Following the incident, police advised the public to avoid the area but later confirmed that there was no ongoing threat. Investigations were ongoing as of Monday evening.