A tragic incident unfolded in the western German city of Solingen on Friday evening as a knife-wielding attacker reportedly killed and injured several people at a local festival. The attack, which occurred around 21:45 local time, has left the community in shock and authorities scrambling to respond.

According to German news agencies and the newspaper Bild, an assailant randomly stabbed passers-by at a festival in Solingen. The local Solinger Tageblatt reported that festival organizer Philipp Müller announced from the stage that emergency workers were fighting to save the lives of nine individuals.

The exact number of fatalities remains unclear at this time. The German news agency DPA, citing police sources, confirmed that a knife was the weapon used in the attack.

Authorities have called on residents and visitors to evacuate downtown Solingen as the investigation unfolds. As of the latest reports, the attacker remains at large, raising heightened concerns for public safety.

Local police have yet to provide an official statement on the incident, leaving many questions unanswered. The motive behind the attack is currently unknown, and it is unclear whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger threat.

This violent episode has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a joyous community gathering. As the situation develops, residents of Solingen and the surrounding areas are being advised to remain vigilant and follow any instructions issued by law enforcement.

The incident in Solingen adds to a series of knife attacks that have occurred in various European countries in recent years, raising questions about public safety and security measures at large-scale events.

Authorities are expected to provide more information as the investigation progresses. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more details become available.