A significant police incident occurred at a vocational college in Cologne, Germany, on the morning of December 1, 2023, resulting in injuries to at least 20 individuals. The incident, described as a pepper spray attack, unfolded at the Humboldtstraße vocational college around 10:00 local time, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Initial reports indicated that only six people had sustained injuries, but this number quickly rose as victims experienced respiratory distress and eye irritation. Emergency medical teams transported several individuals to local hospitals for treatment. Among the injured were both students and faculty members.
Witnesses reported that multiple assailants were responsible for deploying the pepper spray. According to a spokesperson for Polizei Köln, “According to initial witness statements, several unknown individuals sprayed pepper spray in the hallways at around 10:00 and then fled.” Eyewitness accounts noted the presence of 17 emergency vehicles and approximately 40 personnel at the scene, highlighting the scale of the response.
This incident marks the second time in less than a month that pepper spray has been used in an educational setting in Cologne, raising concerns about safety in schools. In a previous occurrence, several students were also hospitalized after a similar incident at another school in the city.
Authorities are actively investigating the incident and are currently searching for the suspects involved. The police encourage anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
As the situation develops, updates will continue to emerge. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in educational environments and the need for ongoing vigilance to ensure the safety of students and staff alike.
