Germany: Police continue response to hostage situation in downtown Karlsruhe as of 19:30 March 10 /update 1

Event

Police are continuing their response to a hostage situation in downtown Karlsruhe as 19:30 March 10. While details still remain unclear, preliminary information indicates that an unknown number of perpetrators are holding at least one person hostage inside a pharmacy near Ettlinger Strasse. Police have cordoned off several roads in the area; however, authorities affirm there is no danger to the public. There have as yet been no reports of casualties. It is not clear when the operation will end and normal traffic will resume.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are almost certain in the impacted area over the coming hours.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Consider seeking alternative routes and allow additional time to reach destinations in the general vicinity of the incident scene over the coming hours.