On February 15, 2025, the tragic news emerged from Munich as reports confirmed the deaths of 37-year-old Amel and her two-year-old daughter, Hafsa. The pair succumbed to injuries sustained during a harrowing incident two days earlier, where they were struck by a car driven by 24-year-old Farhad N. during a demonstration organized by the Verdi union.
The mother and child were critically injured on February 13, when the assailant sped through the protest, which was attended by many families and children. Following the attack, the community rallied around the tragic victims, with countless individuals placing flowers and candles at makeshift memorials across the city.
Local authorities confirmed their identities, with Munich’s Mayor Dieter Reiter speaking emotionally about the tragedy: "Unfortunately, our worst fears have been confirmed. The two-year-old girl and her mother, who were both severely injured during the brutal attack on the demonstration, have died. My thoughts are with the family of the murdered and their relatives and friends,” he shared with reporters from BR.
Reiter expressed disbelief at the circumstances, remarking on the deep sense of loss felt throughout the city, stating, "The mother was a municipal employee. She and her daughter were murdered as they took to the streets for their rights. The pain is beyond words. We will offer all possible support to the family during this dark time.”
The attack not only shocked the local community but has drawn commentary from officials nationwide, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who visited the scene on the evening of the attack. He placed a white rose at the memorial and stated, "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the death of the little child and the woman. It is unimaginable what the relatives are going through. My heartfelt condolences go to them. The whole country mourns with them." His heartfelt message echoed the sentiments of many as the nation processed the horror of the event.
Frank Werneke, the leader of the Verdi union, also expressed his sorrow: "The sorrow over the suffering of the victims of the Munich attack is immeasurable.” Meanwhile, the family of the victims has made emotional pleas, urging the public not to use their deaths to spread hatred. They stated, "We ask not to use this act to incite hatred,” reflecting their commitment to the ideals of justice and solidarity even amid devastating loss.
Investigations are underway to determine the motivations behind the attack. Authorities suspect it was motivated by religious extremism, as the perpetrator reportedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the incident and later acknowledged to police he drove intentionally at the group of protesters. Gabriele Tilmann, the Chief Prosecutor for the Central Office for Combats against Extremism and Terrorism, noted, "We have reason to believe this was motivated by radical ideological beliefs.”
The incident has prompted intense scrutiny of security measures during large public demonstrations, with many recalling the current societal climate and the perils of hate-driven violence. Community leaders have called for reflections on solidarity and the importance of unity as they honor the memory of Amel and Hafsa.
Tragedy struck not just due to the violence but also what it represented—a deep fracture within society. Schools, workplaces, and community centers have planned memorials and gatherings to support the victims’ families and call for unity.
Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder conveyed his sentiments through social media, stating, "It tears your heart apart. All of this is so painful and senseless. All of Bavaria is mourning. Our thoughts are with the relatives." His response underscored the collective grief reverberated throughout the region.
Fundraising efforts have started to support the families affected by this attack. The German Trade Union Confederation, alongside charitable organizations, are mobilizing to provide assistance, emphasizing the need for solidarity and support for those impacted by the violence.
More than just victims, Amel and Hafsa’s legacy will live on through these calls for justice, community unity, and the pursuit of peace against the backdrop of outrage and mourning. The community’s resolve to support each other through such atrocities will define this painful chapter and forge paths toward healing.
The people of Munich and beyond now face the prospects of moving forward with both heavy hearts and the hope for a future unmarred by such hatred, advocating for kindness, support, and solidarity to overcome darkness.