Munich shaken: woman attacked with a knife and shot by the police

Munich shaken: woman attacked with a knife and shot by the police

On June 8, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Munich, in which a 30-year-old woman attacked several passers-by with a knife. The police intervened and shot the attacker, who was previously considered conspicuous. It was threatening, but was not held because there were no legal reasons for it. The police also confirmed that she was present but had not committed any crimes. During the attack, the woman injured a 56-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, both of whom had to be treated on an outpatient basis. The woman's apartment, who lived near the crime scene, was searched, but she was not known for violent offenses.

After several police strips arrived after emergency calls, the woman continued her knife attack, so that the police ultimately used the firearm. However, it remains unclear how many police officers were involved in the operation and how many shots were actually handed over. The injured was taken to the hospital, where she later died. A witness reported on his fears when the woman came up with the knife. The pastor of the nearby Paulskirche expressed his sympathy and regretted the attacker's death.

Investigations and reactions

The Munich homicide commission took over the investigation, while the State Criminal Police Office led the check of the firearm use by the police. Bavaria's Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann expressed his regret about the incident and praised the rapid action of the emergency services. These incidents throw a light on the growing discussion about the use of Tasern in police work. Herrmann himself rejected demands for an increased use of these electric shock devices, while his colleague Alexander Dobrindt announced the equipment of the federal police with Tasern. The Bavarian State Association of the German Police Union has been working for the equipment of the patrol police officers with Tasern.

The latest incident awaited memories of a similar incident in August 2024 when a 31-year-old woman was shot by the police in a Penny supermarket after threatening the emergency services with a kitchen knife. In this case, pepper spray was used before the police gave shots. Dealing with knife attacks is a significant commitment for the police, since the officials often only have a few seconds.

discussion about the use of Tasern

The use of Tasern is still controversial. Amnesty International has published reports that critically examine the use of electric shock devices by law enforcement agencies. In particular, it is warned that the use of teasers in demonstrations, in psychiatric institutions and other sensitive areas can result in serious human rights violations. Since 2021 there have been at least ten deaths in Germany in connection with the use of Tasern, mostly among people who were in psychological crises or under the influence of drugs. Mathias John von Amnesty International has sharply criticized the improper use of Tasern against non-wreath people, especially vulnerable groups.

The events in Munich illustrate the constant conflict between the need for public security and human rights. Dealing the police with dangerous situations remains a crucial topic in the public debate.