The man had a troubling history of violent behavior and mental health issues, having been detained multiple times in the past. Despite this, he was released after psychiatric treatment and was in Germany due to a rejected asylum claim. This incident is the latest in a series of violent attacks in the country, raising concerns ahead of the federal elections scheduled for February 23.

Bavaria's interior minister, Joachim Herrmann, confirmed that the slain victims were the toddler of Moroccan descent and an innocent German bystander, who was praised for his bravery. Bavarian state premier Markus Söder condemned the act as "cowardly," expressing deep sorrow for the loss of "a small, innocent child." Chancellor Olaf Scholz, reacting from France, described the attack as "unbelievable" and questioned how the suspect remained in Germany despite the risks he posed.

In response to the incident, German officials are facing mounting pressure to intensify immigration policies, especially in light of a growing anti-immigration sentiment leading up to the elections. The string of violent events has sparked heated debates regarding asylum and immigration in the country, further complicating an already tense political landscape as elections approach.