Oktoberfest 2025: After the threat of explosives – reopening successful!

Oktoberfest 2025: After the threat of explosives – reopening successful!

After a dramatic incident at the 2025 Oktoberfest in Munich, the all-clear was given on Wednesday evening. After hours of closure, the festival grounds reopened at 5:30 p.m. The incident that brought the security authorities to the scene was triggered by a threat of explosives and a subsequent arson attack in a residential building in the Lerchenau district. Two people lost their lives in these incidents, which further dramatized the situation.

On the morning of October 1, 2025, emergency services received reports of an explosion and fire in a residential building in Lerchenau. Not only were explosions heard; Booby traps were also discovered in the building. A heavy fire brigade operation had to be called off when it became clear that there was an acute risk of explosions. Fire and rescue services were on site with over 160 emergency services, but firefighting had to be stopped due to the risks.

Family conflict as a trigger

According to reports from n-tv and nau.ch, a family dispute is suspected to have triggered the tragedy. A 57-year-old man set the house on fire and planted explosive devices, presumably for family reasons. Tragically, the man and his 90-year-old father died in the incidents, while an 81-year-old mother was taken to hospital with gunshot wounds. Her 21-year-old daughter was rescued on the upper floor of the house.

A letter from the perpetrator containing a bomb threat against the Oktoberfest was seized by the police. Initial fears of political motivation were quickly dispelled; on the contrary, the police were investigating a possible inheritance dispute based on the contents of the alleged perpetrator's letter.

Extensive security measures

The security precautions around Oktoberfest were massively tightened this year due to an increased threat scenario. According to Mayor Dieter Reiter, more than 500 police officers and 30 explosives detection dogs were on duty to ensure the safety of festival visitors. The emergency services kept the situation under control at all times during the threat in order to avert possible dangers at an early stage.

Thanks to these measures and the rapid response of the police, the festival grounds reopened shortly after the incident. “Security is our top priority; nothing can be left to chance,” emphasized Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann during a press conference.

Positive balance despite criticism

There is also good news from the Oktoberfest itself. According to past reports, the popular event recorded high visitor numbers in 2024 despite changeable weather. The balance of the security measures was positive, as crimes decreased compared to the previous year and medical emergencies in the medical station also decreased noticeably. The newly introduced controls with hand-held metal detectors at the entrances are proving effective by seizing several dangerous items.

Ultimately, one thing remains clear: the 2025 Oktoberfest in Munich was saved from anything worse thanks to the quick and effective measures taken by the emergency services and security authorities. Despite a tense start, the festival can now continue with an expectant atmosphere.