Police chief Hans Kaestner says officers will boost patrols and enforce knife bans on public transportation after a deadly weekend stabbing. (U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden)

Kaiserslautern’s police chief said authorities will increase patrols and public transportation checks after a fatal stabbing Saturday in the city center.

During an argument between two men, ages 18 and 20, the 18-year-old allegedly stabbed a 22-year-old man who was with the 20-year-old, police said. The 22-year-old died. The 20-year-old was also stabbed but survived.

“Despite increased patrols, preventive measures and successful investigations, we were unable to prevent this terrible crime,” Kaiserslautern Police Chief Hans Kaestner said in a statement. “This shows us that absolute safety cannot be guaranteed, but we must not let this discourage us.”

Police presence in the city center will increase while investigators continue working the case, Kaestner said. He added that the downtown area is not considered a location with above-average crime rates.

“We will not slacken in our efforts to ensure the safety of our citizens,” he said. “Our investigations are in full swing, and we will use all legal and tactical means at our disposal to meet the security needs of our citizens.”

Kaestner also said checks on public transportation will intensify. Authorities will focus on enforcing the knife ban on buses and trains and will increase monitoring of individuals known to police.