A 45-year-old man allegedly embroiled in a child custody dispute opened fire at a shelter for mothers and children in northern Germany on Monday, leaving six people dead.
The shooting, which occurred midday on 29 June, 2026, took place at a youth welfare facility in Stade, a town close to the port city of Hamburg. The suspected shooter, who lives in the Hannover area, had an appointment at the shelter earlier in the day before carrying out the attack.
Upon responding to the incident, police cordoned off the area near the facility to collect evidence and later detained three individuals. The alleged shooter, the mother of the child, and another female are currently in custody.
According to officials, all six victims, four women and two men, were employees of the facility. Five of the victims died at the scene, while the sixth succumbed to injuries in hospital. The man’s three-month-old daughter and the mother were confirmed safe.
In a formal statement addressing the tragedy, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed disbelief at the venue of the attack. “I’m deeply shocked by the extent of violence in a place that is meant to provide protection,” Steinmeier said.
Investigations into the shooting are proceeding, with forensic experts working at the scene. Authorities have assured the public that there is no further danger, and the area remains cordoned off.
