Mannheim remembers police officers: one year after the fatal knife attack

Mannheim remembers police officers: one year after the fatal knife attack

On May 31, 2025, around 1,500 people met in Mannheim for a moving interreligious peace prayer to commemorate police officer Rouven Laur, who was killed a year ago. He was seriously injured on May 31, 2024 during a knife attack on the Mannheim market square and died from his injuries two days later. Prominent guests were also present at the memorial event, including Baden-Württemberg's Interior Minister Thomas Strobl (CDU), Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and Mannheim's Mayor Christian Specht (CDU). In their speeches, politicians took a clear stance on the attacks on police officers and the need to protect law enforcement officers in society.

A central element of the memorial event was the unveiling of a memorial plaque that provides information about the tragic events of the past year. A floor plate was also presented in memory of the 29-year-old police officer. Interior Minister Strobl emphasized that attacks on police officers also represent direct attacks on the rule of law. In his speech, Mayor Specht described Laur as an exemplary and courageous police officer who gave his life in service to the public.

The market square as a place of remembrance

The market square where the fatal attack took place was given the title “Square of Silent Remembrance.” Not only citizens but also relatives of Rouven Laur gathered here, expressing the hope that the death of their beloved family member had not been in vain. This message underscored that it is not the knives but the people who wield them who are responsible for violence.

Looking back at the events showed the dramatic effects of the attack. The alleged attacker, Sulaiman A., is accused of injuring six people with a knife on May 31, 2024, including Laur and five participants in a rally of the anti-Islam civil movement Pax Europa. The proceedings against Sulaiman A. have been running at the Stuttgart Higher Regional Court since February and include serious allegations such as murder and attempted murder.

Criticism and withdrawal of the vigil

A vigil for that day originally registered by the anti-Islam movement Pax Europa was withdrawn, which caused mixed reactions from the public. The decision emphasized the sensitivity of the issue and the associated emotions surrounding the death of Rouven Laur.

The day of remembrance was not only a moment of silence and remembrance, but also an appeal to society to promote respectful interaction with one another and to reject violence in any form. Both political representatives and citizens recognized the importance of using this impetus for a more peaceful future.

The sight of the large number of people in Mannheim made it clear that the memory of the tragedy and the hope for change are strong in society. Both citizens and political representatives made it clear that such attacks cannot be ignored and that protecting police officers is a top priority. The day ended with the common wish for peace and the affirmation that the commitment to security and justice should not be forgotten.