Police officer dies after knife attack by Afghanistan immigrant at a rally meant to warn of the dangers of Islam

Mannheim, GERMANY - A 29-year-old police officer has died from injuries he sustained during a knife attack, which occurred on Friday, May 31, 2024, at a political rally. Officials announced his death on Sunday, June 2, 2024.

The officer was stabbed several times in the head and neck by a 25-year-old immigrant from Afghanistan, identified as Sulaiman Ataee.

The officer was taken to the hospital for emergency surgery and placed in an induced coma. Despite these efforts, he could not survive his severe injuries. The German police and prosecutors issued a statement mourning the officer, saying he gave his life for public safety.

Ataee was shot and wounded by another officer during the incident and remains hospitalized. A judge has ordered him to be held on suspicion of attempted murder. Police have not yet determined a motive for the attack, as the suspect is not in a condition to be questioned.

The attack happened during an event organized by Pax Europa, a group that informs the public about the dangers of radical political Islam.

One of the group's prominent figures, Michael Stürzenberger, was among those injured. Stürzenberger, a 59-year-old anti-Islamist activist, was participating in the rally when the attack occurred.

Besides the officer, four other men were injured: a 25-year-old, a 36-year-old, a 42-year-old, and a 54-year-old.

The 54-year-old's injuries were initially life-threatening, but his condition has since improved, and he is now out of danger.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his deep sorrow over the officer's death. He posted on X, praising the officer's commitment to public safety. He said, “His commitment to the safety of us all deserves the highest recognition. In these bitter hours, my thoughts are with his family and all those who mourn him.”

In a somber tribute, two dozen of the officer's colleagues gathered at the site of the attack on Sunday. They removed their hats in a sign of respect for their fallen comrade.

Footage from the rally, streamed live on YouTube, showed the chaotic moments when the attack began. The video captured activists preparing for the rally when the attacker suddenly ran towards one man and began stabbing him. Bystanders tried to help, and the attacker was eventually tackled to the ground. Moments later, the attacker was seen with a bloody knife, continuing to thrust it towards the victim's head.

Details about the attacker's background have emerged, with neighbors reporting that Ataee had become "radicalized" over the past year.

One neighbor told reporters, "He used to be normal. Recently, about a year ago, I noticed that he had changed. He was helpful before, then suddenly he turned cold. He suddenly became more reserved - and also more aggressive." He moved to Germany when he was 15 years old in 2014 and now is married to a German citizen with two children.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the motives behind this violent act and ensure justice for the victims.