Hamburg police shoot man with axe ahead of Euros match
A significant police operation unfolded in central Hamburg when a man wielding an axe threatened officers, according to city officials in Germany.
Police responded by shooting and seriously injuring the man, who is currently receiving medical treatment.
Reports indicate the incident occurred near a fanzone for Dutch football supporters, but it is unrelated to the Netherlands versus Poland game held in Hamburg for Euro 2024.
Initial reports from the police mentioned the suspect threatened officers with a pickaxe and an “incendiary device”. Subsequently, a spokesperson clarified that the man, armed with a pickaxe, attempted to ignite a petrol bomb, prompting officers to use pepper spray before resorting to firing.
The suspect received immediate first aid and was then transported to a hospital.
Authorities believe this incident is isolated and not connected to football, as stated by police spokeswoman Sandra Levgruen.
The altercation occurred around 12:30 local time (10:30 GMT), near the Reeperbahn, a major street known for its nightlife, located close to the Dutch fanzone.
Video footage circulating online shows the man brandishing the axe in front of police before apparent gunshots are heard.
The identity of the man has not been disclosed by police, and authorities have not speculated on the motives behind his actions.
According to Rory Smith, chief soccer correspondent for the New York Times in Hamburg, and BBC Sport journalist Gary Rose, preparations for the scheduled match proceeded unaffected despite the incident.
The stadium is about five miles from the city centre where the incident happened.
There are approximately 30,000 Dutch fans in the city, and probably a similar number of Polish. There appears to be a good atmosphere ahead of the match, which is seemingly unaffected by the incident.
