CNN —

In Munich, a vehicle crashed into a crowd of demonstrators on Thursday, resulting in injuries to at least 20 individuals, according to law enforcement. This incident occurred just hours before world leaders were expected to gather in the southern German city for an important security summit.

Authorities initiated a significant operation near the central train station in the city, as reported by a spokesperson and confirmed by Reuters. The driver was taken into custody, and officials stated he did not pose any ongoing threat, as noted in a message on X.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and other leading diplomats are set to attend the Munich Security Conference, taking place approximately 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the site of Thursday’s event.

The vehicle struck a group of protesters who were participating in a demonstration associated with a strike organized by the Verdi trade union, according to local broadcaster BR24. Verdi has not provided any additional information regarding the incident.

An eyewitness recounted seeing police officers fire at the car. “I noticed that a man was lying under the vehicle,” the witness told German program BR24. “I attempted to open the door, but it was locked.”

Ultimately, the witness withdrew and assisted those who were injured, as reported by BR24.

This is an evolving story, and updates will follow.