A 20-year-old man was arrested after detonating fireworks and threatening passengers on an ICE train in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, injuring a dozen.
Train Threat and Initial Incident
Police report that a man on an ICE train in North Rhine-Westphalia threatened a potential attack and set off fireworks. The incident occurred on Thursday, April 2nd, during peak Easter travel.
Witnesses stated the 20-year-old from Aachen was throwing objects filled with plastic pellets on the train traveling to Frankfurt, according to a police spokesperson.
Evacuation and Arrest
The ICE train was evacuated after the incident. Police with heavy weaponry arrived at the scene, and the suspect was apprehended.
The suspect initially detonated fireworks and then retreated to the train’s restroom, where a passenger locked him in until the train reached a station. He was then taken into police custody in Siegburg.
Injuries and Aftermath
Twelve passengers sustained minor injuries as a result of the incident. One person was briefly hospitalized in Bonn due to shock but was quickly discharged.
Many passengers were reportedly frightened by the situation. Authorities reported “light, superficial skin injuries” among those affected.
Weapon and Additional Findings
The suspect reportedly threatened an attack and had a knife in his backpack. A subsequent search revealed another knife, two smoke flares, and a mask.
Reported Shots and Train Disruption
At 8:55 PM, reports of shots fired on the ICE 19 train at the Siegburg station were received. Investigations revealed the sounds were caused by the fireworks.
Initially, police described the fireworks as “airsoft-type” pyrotechnics.
Passenger Care and Continued Travel
Approximately 150-180 passengers were initially evacuated from the train and cared for by firefighters. Many were travelers with luggage awaiting onward journeys.
Passengers were provided with shelter in a nearby gymnasium and offered crisis counseling. The train and tracks were inspected and cleared for use.
Long-distance trains on the route were diverted to Frankfurt and continued their journeys via the Rhine Valley.
