A large-scale police operation was launched in Stade, Lower Saxony, on Monday after a suspect opened fire at a youth welfare facility, meant to be a safe space for mothers and their children. The suspect killed at least five people, confirmed a police spokesman. At least two people have been arrested, including the suspected shooter.

At approximately 1:45 p.m., police announced that five adults had been killed and several other victims injured in the city. Police labeled it a “homicide in a youth welfare institution.”

Initial findings indicate that several shots were fired in the Dankersstraße area.

An eyewitness told Focus Online that a woman and a young man had allegedly tried to flee the scene by car. A police officer shouted: “Stop, stand still.” When the car kept moving, several officers opened fire — at least 10 to 15 shots, according to the witness.

Numerous chaplains have since arrived at the youth welfare facility, located not far from the Stade police station. The motive behind the bloodshed remains entirely unclear. Police say there is currently no danger to the public.

So far, no information has been released about the suspect or a possible motive in the case.