Stade, Germany—Gunfire erupted at a youth welfare facility late this week, leaving six people dead. The incident took place during a scheduled meeting regarding custody arrangements. The shooter targeted employees inside the building. Police have detained three suspects, including the alleged gunman.

The facility provided temporary shelter for mothers and children. Witnesses heard shots fired inside the offices on Monday. First responders found five victims dead at the scene. A sixth victim died later after being rushed to the hospital.

Police officials described the event as an extended family tragedy. The suspect had an appointment to discuss the future of his three-month-old daughter. The mother and child were present during the confrontation but remained unharmed.

Officers pursued the suspects as they attempted to flee in a silver car. Police intercepted the vehicle on a tree-lined road nearby. They fired on the car to stop its progress. A blown-out tire eventually brought the vehicle to a halt.

Images from the scene showed a person slumped from the driver’s seat. Armed officers surrounded the car to complete the arrest. The suspect and a female companion were taken into custody without further resistance. Forensic teams later searched the vehicle for evidence.

Local government officials expressed shock at the violence. The facility serves as a refuge for vulnerable families. The surrounding area remains under police guard while the investigation continues. Officials are still cataloging the sequence of events.

The victims included four women and two men. All were employees of the youth welfare center. Police investigators are currently processing the crime scene to verify the timeline. They have stated the shooter did not possess a legal firearms license.

Authorities have ruled out a political motive for the attack. They are focusing on the details of the custody dispute. The suspects remain in custody while prosecutors prepare charges. The town of Stade is still reeling from the scale of the violence.