Court sentences Munich Verdi rally attacker to life

A Munich court has sentenced Afghan national Farhad N. to life in prison for driving into a Verdi demonstration, BR24 reported. He was convicted of two counts of murder, 23 counts of attempted murder and multiple counts of bodily harm.

The 7th Criminal Senate of the Munich Higher Regional Court also found the guilt to be of particular severity. If the verdict becomes final, release on parole after 15 years would be ruled out. The defendant showed no visible reaction as the verdict was read.

The court followed the requests of the Federal Public Prosecutor General’s Office and the co-plaintiffs. The defence had argued for diminished criminal responsibility, a maximum sentence of 15 years and placement in a psychiatric hospital.

In February 2025, the then 25 year old drove his white Mini into the back of a Verdi demonstration procession in Munich. A 27 year old mother and her two year old child died as a result of the attack. More than 40 other people were injured, some seriously.

Many of those injured continue to suffer physical and psychological consequences, the trial showed.