The police said the man was being investigated for possible drunken driving but instead of stopping, he smashed his pickup truck into a J.C. Penney.

© KXXV-TV, via Associated Press

The latest deadly assault on a beloved German tradition illustrates the challenge of holiday safety.

© Michael Probst/Associated Press

At least five people, including a 9-year-old child, were killed in the attack, which took place in the eastern city of Magdeburg. The authorities are still seeking a motive.

© Ebrahim Noroozi/Associated Press

The incident followed an attack by a driver last week that left 35 people dead, and a mass stabbing several days later.