Berlin police called off the LGBTQ pride parade on Saturday after a car drove into the crowd and several people were injured.
Authorities halted the march hours after it started when a vehicle entered the parade route and made contact with attendees. Emergency services responded quickly to tend to the injured and secure the area. Organizers and officials worked together to evacuate sections of the crowd and provide medical attention.
Police described the scene as chaotic in the immediate aftermath, with first responders focused on getting people to safety. Roads near the route were closed as officers established a perimeter and cleared the site. Bystanders and participants assisted where they could while emergency teams directed traffic away from the area.
Event staff suspended the festivities to prevent further harm and allow investigators to examine what happened. Medical teams treated several people at the scene before arranging transfers to local hospitals when needed. Authorities emphasized that public safety was the priority while details were still emerging.
Witnesses reported confusion and concern as the parade was abruptly stopped and attendees were asked to leave the area. Many people streamed away from the route while some sought shelter in nearby buildings and public transit stations. Organizers used loudspeakers and social media to tell people how to get to safe exits and where to find first-aid stations.
Local police said they were investigating the incident and collecting statements from witnesses and participants. Officers examined the vehicle involved and coordinated with other agencies to piece together a timeline. At the time of the announcement, police had not released information about motives or potential charges.
City officials praised the rapid work of emergency personnel and volunteers who stepped in to help injured people. Hospitals reported receiving patients with varying degrees of injuries, and staff prepared to support anyone needing medical or psychological care. Community groups offered support centers and hotlines for anyone affected by the disruption.
The cancellation left many participants and allies disappointed and unsettled, given the parade’s role as an annual public celebration. For many, the event is a chance to celebrate identity, demand equal rights, and show solidarity in a visible way. Organizers said future gatherings would be reviewed with a focus on safety and resilience.
Police urged anyone with information or footage of what happened to come forward to assist the ongoing inquiry. Investigators asked witnesses to preserve any video and to speak with officers so they could form a clearer picture of the sequence of events. Officials also warned against speculation while the formal inquiry proceeded.
Community leaders called for calm and careful communication as authorities continued their work on the ground. Support services and counseling were offered to those affected, and representatives stressed the need for accurate updates from official channels. The city remained on alert while officials coordinated next steps and kept the public informed where possible.
