Ricarda Hofmann, who hosted the main stage at Berlin's Christopher Street Day, described profound shock and fear after a car struck a crowd near Tiergarten park, close to the Brandenburg Gate. The Saturday incident killed one woman and injured 16 people. Police are searching for a 21-year-old suspect while national and city leaders, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Mayor Kai Wegner, condemned the attack. Hofmann posted an emotional message on Instagram, urging solidarity with those affected.
Berlin Pride Host Ricarda Hofmann Describes 'Fear' After Deadly Car Attack Near Brandenburg Gate
Police and fire department personnel stand next to emergency vehicles following the cancellation of Christopher Street Day (CSD). (is associated with: «'I saw fear:' Berlin Pride presenter shares shock after fatal attack») Fabian Sommer/dpa
Ricarda Hofmann, a well-known podcaster who was presenting on the main stage outside the Brandenburg Gate, has spoken of deep shock and fear after a car struck a crowd during Berlin's Christopher Street Day (CSD) Pride celebrations.
The incident occurred on Saturday near the Tiergarten park. A vehicle hit a group of people close to the Brandenburg Gate, killing one woman and injuring 16 others. Berlin police announced they are searching for a 21-year-old suspect; investigations remain ongoing as authorities appeal for information from witnesses.
Hofmann's reaction
"Right now I honestly don't have the words," Hofmann wrote on Instagram hours after the incident. "I was at CSD today — not just as a presenter, but as part of a community that comes together to be visible. To celebrate love. To stand up for one another. I saw fear. I felt how something that should be a place of joy can turn into a place of uncertainty within seconds."
She added that her "heart feels heavy" and offered her thoughts to the victims and everyone affected.
Official response
National and city leaders condemned the attack. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner publicly denounced the violence and expressed condolences to the victims. Police continue their search for the suspect and have urged anyone with information or footage to come forward.
This account focuses on verified details and the immediate human impact; authorities have not released a motive and investigations are continuing.
Help us improve.
