A dramatic incident unfolded during the Euro 2024 match between Germany and Denmark at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion. A 21-year-old man from Osnabruck, Germany, managed to scale the stadium’s roof, sparking security concerns and a police chase.
The incident began during a brief pause in the match due to a thunderstorm. Video footage captured by the Daily Mail shows the man, clad in black with his face obscured and a backpack slung over his shoulder, navigating the rafters high above the playing field.
Police spotted the trespasser shortly after the second half commenced at 10:11 PM local time. To ensure a safe apprehension, a multi-pronged approach was employed. Officers on the ground coordinated with a drone and a helicopter to track the man’s movements. The chase culminated in his arrest by German special forces at 11:44 PM on a walkway within the stadium.
Following his apprehension, the man was handcuffed and searched. Thankfully, no dangerous items were found in his backpack, which reportedly contained only a camera.
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Dortmund police confirmed that the man’s motive, according to his statement during questioning on Sunday night, was simply a desire to capture “good photos” from a unique vantage point. They emphasized that at no point was there any threat to the safety of spectators within the stadium.
This incident has understandably raised questions about stadium security. Police are currently investigating the man for trespassing, and he has been released from custody. Both local authorities and UEFA, European football’s governing body, have launched investigations into the security breach.
UEFA commended the swift response by police, stadium security, and local authorities in handling the situation. They have also announced that security measures will be thoroughly reviewed at all Euro 2024 host venues. UEFA has made it clear that the safety of everyone involved in the tournament, from fans and players to team facilities, remains their top priority.
Germany’s 2-0 victory over Denmark secured their place in the quarter-finals, where they will face either Spain or Georgia on Friday.
