Magdeburg, Germany — A tragic and devastating attack on the Christmas market in Magdeburg has left at least 5 people dead and over 200 injured.

Authorities have identified the suspect as a 50-year-old male, a doctor from Saudi Arabia who is reportedly employed in Saxony-Anhalt, the same state where the incident took place.

The attack unfolded when a vehicle plowed into the crowded market, driving “straight into the crowd,” according to witnesses.

Early reports suggest the involvement of two vehicles in what appears to be a coordinated terrorist attack.

Local rescue services estimate that between 60 and 80 people sustained injuries of varying severity, with some in critical condition.

Adding to the alarm, German police suspect an explosive device may be present in one of the vehicles used in the assault.

Bomb disposal teams and a heavy police presence have been deployed to secure the area. Law enforcement has urged residents to avoid the vicinity as investigations and safety operations continue.

Germany’s Prime Minister, Reiner Haseloff, is traveling to Magdeburg to oversee the response to this act of violence.

Extensive police measures remain in place, and officials have called for calm as they work to uncover the details behind the attack.

The historic Magdeburg Christmas market, a significant seasonal attraction, was filled with visitors at the time of the attack.

The city, which is the capital of Saxony-Anhalt and home to approximately 240,000 residents, is now reeling from the incident.

Magdeburg police and local public broadcaster MDR have confirmed that one suspect has been arrested.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are treating the attack as a planned and deliberate act of terror.

This heinous act has sent shockwaves across Germany and the international community, casting a somber shadow over the holiday season.

Further updates are expected as officials continue their inquiries. Residents are encouraged to report any information or suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.