German Police Officer Killed During Car Theft Pursuit in Brandenburg

A 32-year-old officer, Maximilian Stoppa, was fatally struck by a fleeing vehicle; a nationwide moment of silence is planned to honor him.

Maximilian Stoppa, a 32-year-old officer and father from Wilsdruff, was killed during a vehicle pursuit in Lauchhammer, Brandenburg, while attempting to deploy a spike strip to stop fleeing car thieves.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as part of a joint operation by the Dresden Police and Federal Police targeting organized car theft rings.
Four suspects, all Polish nationals aged 26 to 37, are in custody; one faces a murder charge for allegedly intentionally hitting Stoppa with the stolen car.
A nationwide moment of silence is scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11:24 AM, marking the exact time of Stoppa's death.
A crowdfunding campaign for Stoppa's family has raised over €150,000, far surpassing its initial goal, reflecting widespread support and condolences.