A fire broke out Saturday evening in an apartment above the “Sophienhof” shopping center in Kiel, Germany. According to police, an 81-year-old resident died in the fire. Criminal police are now investigating.
Firefighters Rescue Several People via Ladder
Police spokesperson Stephanie Lage described the scene as “dramatic,” stating, “As emergency services arrived, flames were already coming from the apartment.” The fire, located in a third-floor apartment, caused significant smoke to spread to upper floors. Initially, several people were reported missing within the building.
Firefighters then checked the building and rescued several people using two ladder trucks. Two residents suffered minor smoke inhalation and were treated on-site. Other residents were unharmed and were able to return to their apartments after the fire was extinguished.
Fire Above Sophienhof: Area Widely Cordoned Off
The cause of the fire is currently unknown, and the criminal police are investigating. The apartment is uninhabitable. However, the fire department stated that, as the shopping center was not directly affected, the mall is expected to open as usual on Monday.
For several hours, there were disruptions in the Sophienblatt and main train station areas, particularly affecting city bus services. The shopping center is part of a large complex that includes passages, offices, and apartments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Kiel on Saturday evening?
A fire broke out in an apartment above the Sophienhof shopping center, resulting in the death of an 81-year-old resident.
What did the police say about the fire?
Police spokesperson Stephanie Lage described the scene as “dramatic” and stated that flames were visible upon arrival. Police are investigating the cause of the fire.
Will the Sophienhof shopping center be open on Monday?
The fire department anticipates that the shopping center will open as usual on Monday, as it was not directly affected by the fire.
As investigations continue, what role will building safety regulations play in preventing similar incidents in the future?
