Explosion in Bar in Cologne City Center: Person Seen on CCTV Leaving Bag at Entrance

cologne, germany - An explosion occurred in a bar in the center of Cologne on Monday morning, leading to a police operation in the area. Details of the incident and ongoing investigation.

An explosion took place shortly after 7 am on Hohenzollernring, between Rudolfplatz and Ehrenstrasse, according to German media. Police have cordoned off a large area for investigation. A cleaner working in the bar was seriously injured and taken to the hospital, as reported by Bild.

Reportedly, the explosion occurred in the entrance area of a bar, Vanity Club Köln, causing damage to the ceiling and walls. Radio Köln mentioned one person sustaining minor injuries and advised the public to avoid the area.

Details regarding the cause of the explosion are still unknown, but local media suggest it was not an accident. CCTV footage captured a person placing a bag at the entrance shortly before the explosion. The presence of other suspects is unclear at this point.

A resident recalled being awakened by a loud bang and witnessing a fire at the entrance, prompting an immediate alert to the fire department. They also observed multiple individuals fleeing the scene after the explosion. The building owner described the incident as an act of terror, estimating around 100,000 euros in material damages.