On March 27, 2025, a stabbing incident in Amsterdam left five individuals injured, with authorities indicating that the victims were likely chosen at random. The attack occurred around 15:20 in the Sint Nicolaasstraat, a narrow street located near the bustling Dam square, a popular area frequented by both locals and tourists.
The victims of this shocking incident include a 69-year-old American man, a 67-year-old American woman, a 26-year-old Polish man, a 73-year-old Belgian woman, and a 19-year-old woman from Amsterdam. Reports indicate that two of the victims sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment in a local hospital. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos that ensued as people witnessed the violent act unfold.
According to a police spokesperson, preliminary investigations suggest that a street robbery may have preceded the stabbing, and authorities are actively looking into this lead. The suspect, who was apprehended shortly after the incident with the assistance of a bystander, remains unidentified as the police continue their investigation into both his identity and motive.
The police received the initial report of the stabbing at approximately 15:30, shortly after which a trauma helicopter was dispatched to the scene to assist the injured. The Dam square was temporarily closed to the public as emergency services attended to the situation. Videos shared on social media show the moment when a citizen tackled the suspect to the ground, holding him until police officers arrived to take over.
In a statement, Amsterdam's Mayor Femke Halsema expressed her condolences, stating, "Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and loved ones." She emphasized that the police investigation is a top priority and that they hope to uncover more details surrounding the motives behind this horrific act. Halsema had to leave a council meeting shortly after the stabbing was reported, indicating the urgency of the situation.
As news of the stabbing spread, onlookers gathered around the Dam square, many taken aback by the sudden outbreak of violence in the heart of the city. A nearby resident, Jaap Sonnemans, described the scene, noting that he had never witnessed a trauma helicopter landing in the area during his 25 years of living there. "I have seen many demonstrations and experienced some petty crime, but this is unprecedented," he remarked, highlighting the growing concern among locals.
Witnesses reported seeing a young man with short, black hair fleeing from the scene, leaving one victim behind with a knife wound. One eyewitness recounted, "I was sitting on a bench when I saw a boy run out of the alley. He ran towards the Dam, leaving a girl behind. When I checked on her, I saw a knife in her back, between her shoulder blades." This harrowing account underscores the randomness and brutality of the attack.
As the police continue their investigation, they have also conducted searches at a hotel located on the Damrak, although the connection between the hotel and the stabbing remains unclear. A receptionist at the hotel confirmed that a significant police presence was noted, with approximately twenty officers asking for a specific guest and room. However, the receptionist declined to disclose any further details.
Minister David van Weel of Justice and Security addressed the media, stating that while there is currently no indication of terrorism, authorities are not ruling out the possibility of a terror investigation. The government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and visitors in Amsterdam, particularly in light of this incident.
In the aftermath of the stabbing, the atmosphere around the Dam square has shifted dramatically. Tourists who typically flock to the area for its vibrant atmosphere were left stunned, with many expressing their disbelief at the violence that erupted in such a public space. Three teenagers who were shopping nearby reported seeing security guards running and hearing sirens, but they had not witnessed the actual attack.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with the implications of this violent act. The police have urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward as they work diligently to piece together the events leading up to the stabbing.
Authorities are keen to reassure the public that they are taking all necessary measures to maintain safety in the city. The quick response from emergency services and the involvement of vigilant citizens in apprehending the suspect demonstrate the community's commitment to ensuring safety and security.
As Amsterdam seeks to understand the motives behind this incident and ensure justice for the victims, the city remains on high alert, reflecting on the need for vigilance in the face of unexpected violence.
