Benno Ohnesorg: A Student Voice That Sparked Change

Although known as a peaceful protester, Ohnesorg became involved in a chaotic scene where police were violently confronting students in a back alley. When he saw officers beating demonstrators, he approached in an attempt to help. Without warning, Karl-Heinz Kurras, a plainclothes police officer, shot Ohnesorg at close range. Witnesses reported that no prior threat had been issued. Ohnesorg was severely wounded, and police delayed providing medical assistance, leading to his death.