New Tree and Bench to Mark Site of CSD Terror Attack in Berlin

Berlin is set to honor the victims of a brutal Islamist attack that occurred during the Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebrations. A new French maple tree will be planted in the Tiergarten, the site of the attack, replacing the tree that was damaged during the incident. Alongside the tree, a rainbow-colored bench will be installed, offering a space for quiet contemplation and remembrance.

The initiative, announced by the Berlin-Mitte district office, aims to provide a place for relatives, friends, and the public to leave messages, photos, and flowers without harming the new tree. The bench is intended to invite solemn reflection and express solidarity with the queer community, reinforcing a commitment to an open and democratic society.

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The new tree will receive a protective metal grate, on which relatives, friends and others can attach cards, photos, flowers and personal messages without damaging the tree.

The attack on July 25th saw an assailant drive a car into a crowd in the Tiergarten before crashing into a tree. The 21-year-old perpetrator then reportedly attacked more people with a machete before fleeing. The violence resulted in the death of one woman and left 31 others injured, some severely.

Authorities apprehended the attacker the day after the incident. During the attempted arrest in Berlin, police officers shot and killed the suspect. The planting of the tree and the installation of the bench are intended as lasting symbols of remembrance and a statement against hate.

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The bench is intended to invite quiet contemplation and solemn remembrance. At the same time, it should express solidarity with the queer community and the joint commitment to an open and democratic society.