In Pinneberg, Schleswig-Holstein, a tragedy occurred that shook an entire family and touched many people deeply. A fire in a two-family house claimed the life of nine-year-old Sofia.
When the flames became a trap
The fire broke out in the attic of the house late on Monday evening at around 11 pm. Sofia and her brother had their rooms there. While the 14-year-old noticed the smoke and was able to flee to his parents on the first floor, Sofia’s path was blocked. The flames cut off access to the attic, making any help impossible.
The parents desperately tried to get to their daughter, but they could no longer reach her. They were still calling for their daughter, but Sofia did not answer them, according to media reports. A neighbor finally brought the father, mother and son to safety using a ladder.
The father suffered severe burns to his arms and was initially given artificial respiration in hospital. He is now breathing on his own again, but remains in hospital. Mother and son were admitted to hospital with smoke inhalation, but were able to leave the hospital a few days later and found temporary accommodation with relatives.
Sofia was a cheerful child who loved glitter and the color pink. She attended elementary school in Pinneberg and loved to dance hip-hop. Her zest for life and light-heartedness will now be remembered by her family and friends.
A close friend of the family, Keven Petersen, has set up a donation account to support the parents during this difficult time.
Pinneberg: A fire engine stands in front of a burnt-out residential building after the fire. | Source: Getty Images
Pinneberg: A fire engine stands in front of a burnt-out residential building after the fire. | Source: Getty Images
Community shocked
The tragedy has triggered a wave of sympathy in Pinneberg. Neighbors, friends and classmates remember Sofia as a child full of energy and joy. The sympathy of many people now goes out to the bereaved, who must learn to deal with the painful loss.
There is also great sympathy on the internet. There is now a post in memory of the deceased Sofia.
