“Shot in the Back”: Germany Erupts in Protest After Police Kill Young Black Man Lorenz A. Outside Nightclub

Thousands marched across Germany on Friday to protest the fatal police shooting of 21-year-old Lorenz A., a Black man, in Oldenburg, Lower Saxony. Lorenz died after being shot by a police officer outside a nightclub, where authorities claim he sprayed security staff with pepper spray after being denied entry and threatened pursuers with a knife. Police allege that during the chase, Lorenz "approach[ed] them menacingly" and again used pepper spray, prompting a 27-year-old officer to shoot him. A coroner's report revealed Lorenz was shot three times from behind — in the back of the head, upper body, and hip — with a fourth shot grazing him. The officer responsible has been suspended and is under investigation for homicide.

Lorenz's death has sparked nationwide outrage, with protesters condemning what they see as structural racism within the police. Between 8,000 and 10,000 people gathered in Oldenburg demanding a full investigation. Demonstrators of all ages and backgrounds gave emotional speeches in his honor. "Several shots from behind cannot be justified," said Suraj Mailitafi, spokesperson for Justice for Lorenz. "No one deserves to become a victim of police violence. The police should de-escalate situations. Trust in an institution supposed to protect us is at stake."

Additional protests were held in cities like Berlin, amplifying calls for accountability. Amnesty International Germany urged authorities to confront structural racism within the police. Police Vice President Arne Schmidt acknowledged the emotional impact, stating, "Lorenz A.'s death has deeply moved many people, including within the police force."

Deadly police shootings are rare in Germany, intensifying public scrutiny over Lorenz's death. The German press code mandates protecting victims' identities, which is why only Lorenz's first name and initial are reported.

Link: DW