German Federal prosecutor Siegfried Buback and his driver are shot by two Red Army Faction members while waiting at a red light.

Siegfried Buback, born on January 3, 1920, in Wilsdruff, a town in Saxony, Germany, became a central figure in West German jurisprudence, navigating a period of intense national challenge. His distinguished legal career culminated in his appointment as Attorney General of West Germany in 1974, a demanding role he held until his tragic assassination in 1977. As the nation's chief federal prosecutor, Buback found himself at the forefront of the state's battle against escalating domestic terrorism, making him a potent symbol of the rule of law and, tragically, a prime target for those who sought to undermine it.

Early Life and Professional Ascension

Buback's early life in Wilsdruff, a region that has witnessed significant historical shifts, unfolded against the backdrop of Germany's post-World War I era. After dedicating himself to legal studies, he embarked on a professional path that saw him rise steadily through the ranks of the German legal system. His work was characterized by a meticulous dedication to justice and a steadfast adherence to legal principles, qualities that earned him recognition and prepared him for the profound responsibilities he would later assume, especially as West Germany confronted complex internal security issues.

Attorney General and the German Autumn

In 1974, Siegfried Buback was appointed to the pivotal position of Attorney General of West Germany, leading the Public Prosecutor General’s Office (Generalbundesanwalt beim Bundesgerichtshof). This office serves as the highest federal prosecution authority in Germany, tasked with investigating and prosecuting serious federal crimes, including high-profile cases of terrorism, espionage, and crimes against the state. Buback’s tenure coincided with the most intense phase of the Red Army Faction (RAF) activities, a far-left militant group that terrorized West Germany with kidnappings, bombings, and assassinations. As the nation's chief legal strategist against these internal threats, Buback became a public face of the state's resolve, making him a prime target for the RAF and other extremist organizations. He was known for his firm, uncompromising stance against political violence, and under his leadership, the federal prosecutor's office pursued a rigorous legal enforcement strategy to uphold democratic order.

The Assassination of Siegfried Buback

A dark chapter in West German history unfolded on the morning of April 7, 1977. As Siegfried Buback was being driven to work in Karlsruhe, the city housing both the Federal Court of Justice and the Federal Prosecutor's Office, his vehicle was ambushed. Near the intersection of Linkenheimer Landstraße and Lorenzstraße, a motorcycle carrying two assailants pulled alongside Buback's Mercedes-Benz. The passenger opened fire with a machine gun, instantly killing Buback, his driver Wolfgang Göbel, and judicial officer Georg Wurster. The Red Army Faction quickly claimed responsibility for the assassination, presenting it as retaliation for the deaths of RAF members in prison. This horrific act sent shockwaves across West Germany, significantly escalating the period of political tension and state response that would later be famously known as the "German Autumn." Buback's murder starkly highlighted the extreme lengths to which terrorist groups were willing to go and underscored the immense personal risks undertaken by those dedicated to upholding the rule of law during that tumultuous era. His death spurred intensified efforts by the state to combat terrorism, leading to heightened security measures and more aggressive investigative and prosecutorial tactics against the RAF and its sympathizers.

Enduring Legacy

Siegfried Buback is remembered as a resolute defender of the constitutional order during one of West Germany's most challenging historical periods. His unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of direct personal threats, left an indelible mark on the nation. His assassination served as a stark and tragic reminder of the fragile nature of democracy when confronted by extremist violence and remains a significant event in Germany's post-war history, symbolizing the profound sacrifices made in the defense of state integrity and public safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Siegfried Buback

Who was Siegfried Buback?
Siegfried Buback was a prominent German jurist who served as the Attorney General of West Germany from 1974 until his assassination in 1977. In this role, he was the chief federal prosecutor, primarily responsible for prosecuting severe crimes against the state, including terrorism.
What was his role as Attorney General?
As Attorney General (Generalbundesanwalt), Buback headed the Public Prosecutor General’s Office. His main duties involved overseeing investigations and prosecutions of federal crimes such as terrorism, espionage, and organized crime, particularly during a period when West Germany faced significant threats from militant groups like the Red Army Faction (RAF).
When and where was he assassinated?
Siegfried Buback was assassinated on April 7, 1977, in Karlsruhe, West Germany. He was ambushed by members of the Red Army Faction while on his way to work.
Who was responsible for his murder?
The Red Army Faction (RAF), a left-wing militant organization, claimed responsibility for Siegfried Buback's assassination. The attack was part of their campaign of political violence against the West German state.
What was the historical context of his assassination?
Buback's murder occurred during a period of intense domestic terrorism in West Germany, often referred to as the "German Autumn" of 1977. It was one of several high-profile acts of violence perpetrated by the RAF, targeting key figures in the government and judiciary to challenge the authority of the state.
What was the impact of his death?
His assassination had a profound impact, intensifying public and political alarm over terrorism in West Germany. It led to strengthened state security measures and a more determined crackdown on the RAF, further solidifying Buback's legacy as a figure who stood against political extremism.