Knife-wielding man attacks passersby in Rotterdam

A chaotic scene unfolded on the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam as a man allegedly stabbed multiple people while shouting "Allahu Akbar," according to witness statements provided to the police.

The suspect, who was apprehended at the scene, is among the injured and has been taken to the hospital, Caliber.Az report, citing Dutch media.

Emergency services rushed to the bridge after reports of the violent incident. According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was wildly attacking people beneath the bridge before he was eventually subdued by bystanders. A tent has been set up by the police to shield the victim, and investigators are currently combing the area for evidence.

Incident details

The attack reportedly began near the Remastered Museum on Willemsplein, where another victim was found. The area has since been cordoned off, and authorities are supporting those affected at the scene.

Witnesses describe the suspect as carrying two large knives and acting with clear intent to cause harm. One witness claimed the attacker targeted a random passerby, repeatedly shouting “Allahu Akbar” as he stabbed his victim. Panic ensued in the square, where there is also a restaurant, as people sought cover from the assailant.

A key moment in the incident came when a 32-year-old personal trainer named Reniël, who was giving a session nearby, took action to stop the attacker. Using two sticks, he managed to knock the man unconscious, preventing further bloodshed. Visitors from the Remastered Museum also intervened by throwing furniture at the attacker.

Police response and investigation

The police arrived shortly after the suspect was subdued and took him into custody. Both the suspect and another injured person were transported to the hospital. A police spokesperson confirmed that the disturbance likely started in a nearby parking garage, where the first victim was found critically injured. The attacker then moved to the square, fatally wounding a second person.

The spokesperson also acknowledged that the suspect’s alleged cries of "Allahu Akbar" are being taken seriously and will be a focus of the ongoing investigation. Forensic teams and detectives are now piecing together the sequence of events leading to the attack.

The square remains closed as police continue their investigation, and authorities have urged the public to avoid the area until further notice.