Munich police launched a massive manhunt across the city after residents dialed emergency numbers reporting blasts and gunshots in a residential neighborhood. A residential building fire was intentionally caused by an arsonist in the immigrant-rich north of Munich. This awful disaster ended in one confirmed death with one person still unaccounted for. City and federal authorities have worked to assure the public that there is no further danger.
The situation took a dramatic turn when witnesses started reporting hearing gunshots and explosions, leading to a rapid mobilization of police and special forces. The fire was apparently related to a domestic dispute involving the family, but details are unclear.
Responding authorities found one person dead inside the structure and another person is still missing. Luckily, law enforcement says the person missing is not in immediate threat. Investigators are still trying to establish links to other sites in Munich. They’re working on one specifically for Theresienwiese, the site of their annual Oktoberfest celebration.
“We are currently investigating all possibilities. Possible connections to other locations in Munich are being examined, including the Theresienwiese,” – Munich police
The police department has used the encryption-free WhatsApp messaging service in order to share updates with the public about progress made in investigating the incident. They reiterated that because the investigation is still in process, opening of the festival grounds at Theresienwiese has been postponed.
“For this reason, the opening of the festival grounds has been delayed,” – Munich police
Even with the gravity of the incident, officials say there is no ongoing threat to public safety. This monumental operation underscores police community safety priorities, as the department investigates the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
