German prosecutors are investigating potential Islamist extremist motives behind a car ramming attack in Munich that injured 36 people on Thursday. The 24-year-old Afghan suspect, who reportedly identified himself as a bodybuilder and fitness model, drove his Mini Cooper into a labor union demonstration near the location of the Munich Security Conference, where prominent figures like Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were anticipated.

Following his arrest, the suspect allegedly declared "Allahu Akbar" and engaged in prayer, prompting an immediate investigation by counter-terrorism authorities. Prosecutor Gabriele Tilmann stated the suspect confessed to intentionally targeting the demonstrators and offered a religiously motivated explanation. While suggesting an Islamist connection, Tilmann clarified that there's currently no evidence linking the suspect to any specific extremist groups.

The suspect, who sought asylum in Germany in 2016 and resided in Munich, reportedly shared religious content on social media. He is currently facing 36 counts of attempted murder, bodily harm, and dangerous interference with road traffic. While a chat message suggesting a farewell to relatives was discovered, investigators have not yet found evidence of premeditation or accomplices. The suspect had no prior criminal record and possessed a valid residency permit, with no indications of mental illness.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited the scene on Friday, expressing condemnation for the attack's brutality. The incident occurred one day before the Munich Security Conference, where the Russia-Ukraine war was expected to be a key topic of discussion, including a planned meeting between Vice President Vance and President Zelenskyy.