BERLIN – Several people were injured in a knife attack at Hamburg’s central train station, German authorities said on Friday evening.

Police confirmed that the suspect, a 39-year-old woman, was arrested at the scene immediately after the incident.

“Based on our current findings, we assume that she acted alone. The investigation into the background is in full swing,” Hamburg police said in a statement.

Police spokesman Florian Abbenseth reported that the suspect, a German citizen, had no apparent political motive.

Investigators were looking into possible mental health issues, he told the German press agency DPA.

Emergency services swiftly responded, treating some of the victims inside a train that was waiting at the station. A spokesman for the emergency services told public broadcaster NDR that three victims were in critical condition, three had serious injuries, and six sustained minor injuries.

While several media outlets reported that at least 17 people were injured in the attack, police sources said they could not yet confirm a definitive number.

The incident has disrupted train services at one of northern Germany’s busiest transportation hubs. According to Deutsche Bahn, there will be delays and diversions affecting long-distance trains.
PNA/Anadolu