A BMW drove into a group of schoolchildren in Berlin’s Wedding district this afternoon, leaving several injured including a teacher who suffered serious injuries, German authorities have confirmed.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:10pm local time at the intersection of Seestraße and Dohnagestell, a busy road northwest of the city centre near the leafy Volkspark Rehberge, a public park popular with families.
A spokesperson for the Berlin fire brigade confirmed that the car drove into children who were walking with their educators. The adult accompanying the children sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital, whilst several children aged between seven and eight years old suffered minor injuries.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
Three of the 15 children hurt in the crash were taken to Virchow Hospital, while an accompanying adult suffered serious injuries. Multiple emergency vehicles, including at least three ambulances, responded to the scene within minutes of the crash.
“Some children were lightly injured and an accompanying adult was severely injured,” a Berlin fire brigade spokesperson told reporters at the scene. The swift response from emergency services ensured all injured parties received immediate medical attention.
Photos from the scene show the BMW with damage to its front left headlight, whilst the driver was seen leaning against the vehicle as police questioned him. The driver, who was uninjured, was seen leaning against his car while being questioned by police.
Investigation Underway
Emergency services later confirmed that the crash was an accident. The driver, whose identity has not been released, was detained at the scene but authorities have ruled out any malicious intent.
The driver was questioned by police and uninjured in the crash,” confirmed a police spokesperson, adding that initial investigations suggest the incident was accidental rather than deliberate.
The crash occurred during what appears to have been a school outing, with multiple groups of children present in the area. Witnesses reported seeing children engaged in outdoor activities near the park when the vehicle lost control whilst turning.
Scene of the Accident
The intersection where the crash occurred connects Seestraße with Dohnagestell, running through the Volkspark Rehberge area. This location is known for its family-friendly environment and is frequently used by school groups for educational outings.
Emergency services cordoned off the area whilst investigators examined the scene and paramedics treated the injured. The sight of multiple ambulances and emergency vehicles drew crowds of concerned onlookers, many of whom expressed shock at the incident.
“It’s a popular area for families and school groups,” said one local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “To see something like this happen here is deeply disturbing.”
Context of Vehicle Incidents in Germany
The incident comes amid heightened awareness about vehicle safety in German cities. Germany has been left reeling after a series of car-related attacks in recent months. However, authorities were quick to emphasise that today’s incident appears to be an unfortunate accident rather than anything more sinister.
Berlin police have announced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including examining whether speed, mechanical failure, or driver error played a role. Blood samples were taken from the driver as part of standard procedure in such incidents.
Support for Victims
Local authorities have mobilised support services for the affected children and their families. Crisis counsellors were dispatched to the scene to assist witnesses and first responders who may have been traumatised by the incident.
The school involved has not been named, but officials confirmed they are working closely with educational authorities to ensure proper support is provided to all affected students and staff members.
Berlin’s Mayor expressed concern for the victims and praised the quick response of emergency services. “Our thoughts are with the injured children and their teacher. We are grateful for the swift action of our emergency responders,” a spokesperson for the mayor’s office stated.
Road Safety Concerns
The incident has reignited discussions about road safety in residential areas frequented by children. Local community groups have long advocated for additional safety measures around parks and schools, including reduced speed limits and enhanced pedestrian crossings.
Transport safety experts emphasise that whilst such accidents are rare, they underscore the importance of vigilance in areas where children are present. The intersection where today’s crash occurred will likely face scrutiny as authorities consider whether additional safety measures are needed.
As investigations continue, police have appealed for any witnesses to come forward with information that might help establish the exact sequence of events leading to the crash. Meanwhile, the community rallies around the affected families, hoping for swift recoveries for all those injured in this distressing incident.
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