Düsseldorf, Germany (dpa) – March 13, 2025 – A 49-year-old man was shot and killed in Düsseldorf’s train station district late Wednesday night in what investigators believe was a dispute over financial matters. The perpetrators remain unidentified and are currently at large.
According to police reports, the victim, a Cameroonian national, was confronted by three men outside a hotel. Authorities suspect that the assailants had been waiting for him. An argument broke out, seemingly related to unpaid debts. Attempting to escape, the victim entered the back seat of a ride-hailing vehicle and instructed the driver to leave the scene quickly. However, the vehicle was forced to stop at a red light just a short distance away, allowing the attackers to catch up.
One of the suspects then brandished a firearm and fired multiple shots, shattering the car’s side window. The victim was fatally struck while seated in the vehicle. The three suspects fled on foot, disappearing into the night. Alarmed residents and pedestrians alerted authorities after hearing the gunfire.
Investigation Underway
Emergency responders attempted to revive the victim, but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The ride-hailing driver, though physically unharmed, was reportedly in shock.
Forensic experts worked through the night, analyzing bullet trajectories and collecting evidence. A police spokesperson confirmed that there was no immediate threat to the public. The homicide division has since launched an investigation into the incident, treating it as a case of manslaughter.
Authorities revealed that the victim had a history of legal troubles, including previous investigations related to fraud, counterfeiting, and illegal residence. His phone was seized as part of the inquiry.
“We believe this was a financial dispute,” said Prosecutor Markus Klein. “There are strong investigative leads, and we are actively pursuing them.”
Investigators are now examining the victim’s recent contacts and searching for surveillance footage that may have captured the suspects. However, as of now, no arrests have been made, and the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown.
The investigation remains ongoing.
