Police officer injured by knife in Mannheim dies

A police officer who was in critical condition after a mass stabbing attack Friday in the German city of Mannheim has died, local authorities said.

The 29-year-old was one of six people, including anti-Islam activist Michael Stürzenberger, who were injured by the attacker, who was arrested at the scene.

The police officer was stabbed several times in the head.

Despite emergency surgery, he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday afternoon.

“This news shook me deeply,” said the leader of Baden-Württemberg, the state in which Mannheim is located.

“All our thoughts are with the family, loved ones and colleagues of the police officer,” added Winfried Kretschmann.

These stabbing attacks show “the often incalculable risks to which police officers are exposed every day,” Mr. Kretschmann said. “I would therefore also like to express my deepest sympathy to all police officers in Baden-Württemberg. We are all united with you today in deep sadness.”

Earlier on Sunday, around 800 people formed a human chain in the square where the attack took place. They aimed to send a message against “violence, hatred and unrest,” vigil organizers said.

The attack took place at the same time as a rally in the market square organized by Mr Stürzenberger, a far-right activist. Part of it was broadcast live on YouTube.

The alleged attacker, believed to be a 25-year-old Afghan who arrived in Germany in 2014, was shot and wounded on the spot.

His alleged motive remains unclear, according to police.