Three people have died, and nine others are critically injured after a knife attack at the Festival of Diversity in Solingen, Germany.

The attack occurred in a central square during the city’s 659th anniversary celebration, which was expected to draw 80,000 visitors.

The attacker reportedly stabbed passers-by at random before escaping, prompting a major police response and a manhunt.

The festival has been canceled, and large parts of the city are cordoned off, the Express has reported.

Solingen’s mayor expressed shock and sadness over the tragedy, as the community mourns the victims.

Written by B.C. Begley