A performer at a festival in Germany, where a knife assault resulted in three fatalities, recounted how he continued his act “to prevent triggering widespread panic.”
DJ and producer Topic expressed his sentiments on Instagram following the incident in his hometown of Solingen, located near Dusseldorf, on Friday night, stating that he remained on stage as the event transpired.
Three individuals lost their lives, and eight sustained injuries, five of whom suffered serious wounds. German authorities have yet to make any arrests, and an extensive manhunt is currently in progress.
Emergency services arrived at the scene in Solingen, Germany. Pic: AP
In his message, Topic articulated that it was “extremely difficult” to continue, yet he persisted, later seeking refuge nearby as police helicopters “hovered” overhead.
“During my performance, security personnel from the city approached me and requested that I keep playing to prevent inciting mass hysteria, as there had already been victims from a stabbing assailant,” he stated.
“Thus, I continued playing, even though it was extraordinarily challenging. After approximately 10-15 minutes, the music was finally halted, and attendees were informed about the situation.”
Pic: AP
Individuals were reportedly attacked indiscriminately in the Fronhof market square, where musicians were performing, in the city of Solingen around 9:45 PM local time on Friday.
Attendees gathered for the Festival of Diversity, which commenced on Friday to celebrate the 650th anniversary of the city, home to 160,000 residents.
Topic, recognized for songs like My Heart Goes (La Di Da) featuring British artist Becky Hill and the ATB remix of Your Love (9PM), further expressed: “I still find it hard to comprehend… this was intended to be a free festival for everyone. Close friends of mine were present with their young children…
“As I write this, a helicopter is still flying over the home where I spent my childhood in a ‘small’ town in Germany. What is transpiring in this world…
“My thoughts are with all those affected.”
Solingen is situated in North Rhine-Westphalia, which is the most populated state in Germany, sharing a border with the Netherlands.
