German authorities announced Tuesday that investigators have discovered what appears to be a claim of responsibility from the suspect in a fatal attack that occurred near Berlin's Pride festival. The 21-year-old suspect, identified as Abdul Ballout, was killed by police on Sunday, one day after authorities allege he drove a van into a crowd celebrating the festival's closing party before using a machete on attendees.
A Polish woman died in the attack, and 31 other individuals sustained injuries.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that investigators are currently analyzing a cellphone recovered from the van. He indicated that a video, in which the disguised individual is believed to be the suspect, has been found and may constitute a claim of responsibility. The German federal prosecutor's office confirmed the existence of a video that announces an intention to carry out an attack and pledges allegiance to the Islamic State group. The German daily newspaper Bild was the first to report on the video.
Dobrindt also noted that additional evidence was located at an apartment, with "references" to IS mentioned. He did not provide further details.
According to Berlin prosecutors, Ballout, who was born in Germany and has Lebanese heritage, traveled to Lebanon in 2025 with the stated intention of joining IS in Syria. During his time in Lebanon, he reportedly made contact with individuals believed to be IS members.
The incident has raised questions regarding how the suspect was able to move freely despite a previous conviction for actions including attempted links to IS.
Dobrindt commented on the suspect's case, suggesting that individuals identified as dangerous should not be released on suspended sentences. He also described the use of juvenile law in such cases as "dubious." The minister proposed that ankle monitors be utilized to restrict the movement of such individuals, while also acknowledging that "absolute security" is unattainable.