The Oktoberfest in Munich is set to reopen following a significant police operation triggered by a bomb threat and a separate incident involving explosives at a residential building. Authorities reported that nothing suspicious was found, easing concerns following a tragic incident that left one person dead after a family dispute escalated into violence.
A spokesperson from the Munich police stated that nearly 30 sniffer dogs were deployed during the operation and confirmed, “We haven’t found anything unusual that could be related to this potential threat scenario.” The festival, which attracted around 6.7 million visitors last year, is scheduled to resume at 5:30 p.m. local time.
Earlier in the day, the lively atmosphere typical of Oktoberfest was significantly subdued as excited attendees waited nervously outside the venue, with attractions such as the iconic Ferris wheel and roller coaster remaining closed temporarily. The festival opened on September 20 and is set to continue until October 5.
The police had closed the Oktoberfest site due to the uncertainty surrounding the explosives discovered in a residential area of northern Munich, where a shooting occurred. The situation involved a 57-year-old man suspected of intentionally causing a fire during a family dispute; he later took his own life. This incident raised numerous questions regarding the connections between these violent occurrences and the bomb threat directed at the Oktoberfest.
Authorities confirmed that a backpack found with the suspect contained an explosive device, which prompted a swift response from special forces to defuse the situation. The area surrounding the residential building was evacuated to ensure public safety. Additional details revealed that the man had shot and killed his father during the incident, and two others, including his mother and daughter, sustained injuries.
While this period has been marred by violence and tragedy, the reopening of Oktoberfest symbolizes resilience and a return to community celebration. As the festival resumes, there remains hope that such events can be enjoyed safely, emphasizing the importance of community spirit and vigilance in the face of uncertainty.