Remembering the Victims of Hanau - Wulff Calls for Diversity - Hanau attack victims remembered as family fights for justice six years later
Six years after the deadly Hanau attack, relatives and friends gathered to remember Hamza Kurtović, one of nine victims killed in a racist shooting. The memorial ceremony took place as the Kurtović family continues their legal fight for justice. Among the attendees were former German President Christian Wulff, a local bishop, and a Jewish community leader.
The 2020 attack, carried out by a 43-year-old gunman with far-right beliefs, shocked Germany and reignited debates about racism and security. Since then, calls for stronger protections and accountability have grown, though critics argue progress remains slow.
On February 19, 2020, Tobias R. shot and killed nine people in Hanau before taking his own life. His victims, including Hamza Kurtović, were targeted because of their ethnic backgrounds. The attack exposed deep flaws in how authorities handle racist violence.
The Kurtović family has since pushed for answers, criticising investigators over failures at the crime scenes. One key issue was a locked emergency exit at the second location, which may have hindered escape. Their efforts to reopen the case through legal channels were blocked in 2023, leading them to file a complaint with Germany's Federal Constitutional Court in November of that year.
At the memorial, former President Christian Wulff urged Germans to confront discrimination head-on. He criticised society's habit of ignoring prejudice and called for active efforts to foster diversity. Beate Hofmann, bishop of the Evangelical Church of Kurhessen-Waldeck, and Oliver Dainow, managing director of Hanau's Jewish community, also spoke at the event.
Since the attack, cities like Hanau and Frankfurt have increased security measures, including more video surveillance and police patrols. Victim support funds and investigations into far-right networks, such as the NSU 2.0 case, have expanded. Yet, by 2026, many argue these steps still fall short of what is needed to prevent future violence.
The memorial for Hamza Kurtović comes as Germany grapples with the lasting impact of the Hanau attack. The Kurtović family's legal battle highlights ongoing concerns about justice and accountability. Meanwhile, public figures and communities continue to demand stronger action against racism and better protections for vulnerable groups.
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