Disorderly Conduct on Train: Homeless Man Destroys Property in Kassel

A 34-year-old homeless Afghan man caused significant disruption on Monday evening aboard an ICE train in Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. The train, designated ICE 683/633 and traveling from Hamburg, was rendered inoperable due to extensive damage inflicted by the individual.

Witnesses reported that the man abruptly stood up, seized an emergency hammer, and began striking the windows without any apparent provocation. His erratic behavior was alarming, as he shouted loudly and acted aggressively. As the situation escalated, he made his way toward the front of the train, where he again used the emergency hammer to smash additional windows and doors.

A train attendant observed the man as he exited the train and began to strike the exterior of the train and nearby metal supports on the platform. Upon re-entering the train, he was successfully subdued by a railway employee, who managed to push him into a seat, causing him to drop the hammer. Other passengers assisted in restraining him until the federal police arrived.

Three patrol units from the Federal Police Inspectorate in Kassel, along with two from the state police, responded to the incident. The man resisted arrest upon the police's arrival, injuring one officer in the process. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported.

The damage to the now non-operational ICE train is estimated at approximately EUR50,000. The destruction included four broken windows, three compartment doors, two monitors, and one external door. Despite the chaos, there were no further disruptions to train services.

The individual was brought before a judge on Tuesday afternoon and subsequently taken to the Kassel-Wehlheiden correctional facility. The Federal Police Inspectorate in Kassel is conducting an investigation, initiating legal proceedings on charges related to hazardous interference with railway operations and property damage.

Authorities encourage anyone with additional information regarding this incident to contact them at 0561 81616-0 or visit their website at www.bundespolizei.de.