Three unknown individuals verbally insulted two young men in a tram in Kassel on Sunday evening, using gestures, spitting at them, and threatening them with clenched fists. Because a homophobic motive is evident, the further investigation is being handled as a hate-related offense by the Criminal Investigation Department for State Security of the Nordhessen Police Headquarters. The police are seeking witnesses and passengers who can provide information about the suspects.
As the 20-year-old victim described when reporting the incident on Monday at the East Police Station, the assault occurred between 7:40 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. in a Line 7 tram between Königsplatz and Weserspitze. There, the three unknown male youths verbally and with offensive gestures subjected him and his companion sitting nearby to homophobic insults. The two men remained calm and asked the trio to leave them alone. When the suspects got off at the Weserspitze stop, they spat on the men, touched them on the pants, threatened them with clenched fists, and beat on the tram’s exterior window before it continued on its way.
The perpetrators are described as roughly 16 years old, about 1.70 to 1.80 meters tall, with black hair. All three wore black pants with a white “Under Armour” print. Two were said to be wearing black jackets and were slim, while the third suspect wore a gray jacket and was described as somewhat sturdier.
In addition to the ongoing investigations, which include reviewing the tram’s video footage, the police are asking for information about the unknown suspects. Passengers and witnesses who can provide tips should call the Nordhessen Police Headquarters at (0561) 9100.
The Nordhessen Police Headquarters also has a contact person for LGBTQ+ matters. This liaison serves as a bridge between the queer community, local and regional organizations, and the police to reduce barriers and prejudices, inform the public, and send a clear message against discrimination.
