Apolda / Jena, March 24, 2026 – An incident of extreme violence occurred late Friday evening in Apolda. A group of masked individuals from a vehicle convoy attacked two young men in their car and injured them. The criminal investigation department is investigating a breach of the public peace and is urgently seeking witnesses.
- Time of incident: Friday, 20.03.2026, around 11:30 PM
- Location: Apolda (Start of pursuit: Ludwig-Edinger-Straße, Attack: Leipziger Straße)
- Victims: Two men (20 and 21 years old) in a grey Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Damage: Facial injuries to both occupants as well as approx. 3,000 euros in property damage (including a destroyed windshield)
- Witness information: Apolda Police, Tel.: 03644 541-0, Email: PI.Apolda@polizei.thueringen.de (Case number: 0071111/2026)
Car chase ends in violence
The incident began at a parking lot in Ludwig-Edinger-Straße in Apolda, where approximately eight to ten vehicles had gathered. As the two 20 and 21-year-old men passed the parking lot in their grey Suzuki Grand Vitara, the entire group of vehicles set off and followed them.
The driver of the Suzuki eventually stopped on the right side of the road in Leipziger Straße, assuming it was a motorcade he wanted to let pass. Instead, the convoy stopped. Several dark-clad and masked individuals got out, approached the Suzuki, and immediately began hitting the two young men. The perpetrators destroyed the vehicle’s windshield and dented the bodywork before fleeing in an unknown direction.
Background: Hostility towards Jena football club
According to police reports, insulting words were spoken during the assault that showed a clear hostile attitude towards a Jena football club. This suggests that the act could be in the context of rivalries within the regional football scene.
Background: Violence prevention and correct behavior during threats
Violent clashes in the environment of rival fan groups are a constant issue for the Thüringen Police. In particular, the traditional supporters of FC Carl Zeiss Jena are often at the center of provocations from competing scenes, which frequently erupt in public spaces even far from match days.
The police advise in threat situations: If you notice you are being targeted, followed, or harassed by other vehicles, do not stop in dark or deserted places. Instead, drive to well-frequented areas, such as open gas stations, or head directly to the nearest police station. In any case, lock the vehicle doors from the inside, close the windows, and immediately dial the emergency number 110. If possible, memorize license plates, vehicle types, and conspicuous features of the occupants, but never put yourself in danger.
Source:
Witness Appeal
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.