Man of Serbian origin barricades himself with children in Dortmund, fires at police

A significant police operation is underway in Dortmund, Germany, after a man reportedly barricaded himself inside a house with at least two children. Authorities have characterized the situation as a serious security threat, distinct from a hostage crisis, according to public broadcaster WDR.

German media reports suggest the man is of Serbian origin. Prior to the standoff, he allegedly caused a disturbance at a restaurant, brandishing a baton, threatening patrons, and using pepper spray. He then fled the scene in a vehicle.

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One projectile hit the protective vest of the police officer involved in the intervention.

When police responded to a woman's call for help at a residential-commercial building on Wittbräucker Straße in the Hacheney district, the man emerged and allegedly fired a small-caliber pistol at an officer. A police spokesperson confirmed that one projectile struck the officer's protective vest, resulting in minor injuries, according to Bild newspaper.

The man then retreated into a nearby house, reportedly with at least two children, believed to be his own. Special police units (SEK) are on the scene, with heavily armed officers, ambulances, and medical teams deployed. Wittbräucker Straße has been completely closed due to the ongoing police operation.

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According to current knowledge, the police officer sustained minor injuries.