Mourning for motorcycle police officers: memorial service in Stuttgart-Degerloch

Mourning for motorcycle police officers: memorial service in Stuttgart-Degerloch

In the heart of Stuttgart, more precisely in Degerloch, motorcycle police officer Thomas Hohn, who tragically died on June 11, 2022 during a police operation, was honored on June 24, 2025. He was accompanying Hungarian President Viktor Orbán during the European Football Championship when he was hit by a driver and subsequently died. Many relatives, friends and numerous colleagues of the deceased were present at the memorial service, which began at 11:18 a.m., the time of the accident. High-ranking representatives such as State Interior Minister Thomas Strobl, Mayor Frank Nopper and Police Chief Stefanie Hinz also attended this emotional day. SWR reports that the scene of the accident was closed to traffic so that participants in the remembrance could lay roses in silence. A touching symbol of mockery was the unveiling of a memorial stele at the scene of the accident, which now preserves the memory of the esteemed police officer.

The tragic incident had great significance not only for the survivors, but also for the entire police force. Police Chief Markus Eisenbraun described Hohn as an inspiration and role model for many of his colleagues. Another 27-year-old police officer was seriously injured in the accident, but was able to leave the hospital after a few days. The 69-year-old driver, who overlooked the route closure, has since been charged with negligent homicide and bodily harm. Day24 adds that a memorial service for Hohn took place just a week after the accident, while a minute's silence was held in the castle courtyard in Stuttgart, which sent a strong signal of solidarity and compassion.

A deep loss for the community

The funeral service in Stuttgart was not only a memorial event for Thomas Hohn, but also a moment of solidarity for the local police, fire brigade and rescue services. The late officer's image was shown on a screen and many passersby paused to pay tribute to the courage and dedication of a man who gave his life for the safety of others.

The change in police history, as described by historians such as Professor Sabine Mecking, shows that the police are always faced with new challenges. These range from the rebellious 1960s to the current demands for de-escalation and proximity to citizens. Deutschlandfunk addresses the role of the police as a service provider to society and emphasizes that respectful interaction with one another is an essential basis for peaceful coexistence.

In times when the public perception of the police is sometimes critical, it is now even more important to focus on the positive aspects and heroic actions of the police officers. Thomas Hohn's death is a painful reminder that emergency services not only ensure order, but are also exposed to risks and dangers themselves.