German police shot an axe-wielding man near a Euro 2024 fan zone in Hamburg after he threatened officers with a firebomb on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
The incident took place amid a peaceful march of thousands of Dutch supporters. The suspect, armed with a gold-coloured double-headed axe and an incendiary device, began threatening officers near the Reeperbahn, where Netherlands fans were gathering ahead of the match against Poland.
Four loud bangs were heard as police tried to subdue the man using pepper spray. When the suspect continued to pose a threat, an officer fired a warning shot. Eventually, officers shot the man, causing him to fall to the ground. Riot police quickly sealed off the area.
Video footage showed the suspect, dressed in black and carrying a rucksack, confronting armed officers, getting sprayed with pepper spray, and attempting to flee before being shot.
Hamburg police confirmed the incident on social media: “At St. Pauli, there is currently a major police operation. A person threatened police officers with a pickaxe and an incendiary device. The police then used their firearms. The attacker was injured and is currently receiving medical treatment.”
Despite the incident, the Euro 2024 Group D opener between the Netherlands and Poland proceeded as scheduled. After facing Poland, the Netherlands will also face France and Austria in the group stage.
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