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Remembering the Lübeck fire drama: Remembering the victims of 1996
On January 18, 2026, Rottweil remembers the victims of the Lübeck arson attack in 1996 and highlights historical events.
Remembering the Lübeck fire drama: Remembering the victims of 1996
On January 18, 2026, a day that casts some dark shadows in history, Germany commemorates the terrible arson attack on an asylum seekers' home in Lübeck. 30 years ago, on this very night, a fire broke out shortly after 3 a.m. that claimed the lives of ten people, including children. There were 48 people in the building during this tragic incident and firefighters were able to rescue some survivors from the roof. But the horror took a shocking turn when the investigation quickly revealed that it was a case of arson. The police arrested four suspects from the neo-Nazi scene, but they soon had to be released because there was insufficient evidence, as ndr.de reports.
The search for clues took unexpected turns. Three other people, including the suspect Safwan E., who themselves lived in the asylum accommodation, were targeted. The trial, which began in September 1996, ended in an acquittal in 1997 due to a lack of incriminating evidence. A call to reopen the investigation was launched in 2011, but this was rejected in 2012. The case remains unsolved to this day and no one has been held responsible for the tragedy.
A look into history
January 18th also marked other important events in history. In 2001, the Federal Constitutional Court declared the storage of the “genetic fingerprint” to be constitutional. A year earlier, in 1996, the devastating arson attack occurred. Another historical event is the founding of the National People's Army (NVA) in the GDR, which was decided by the People's Chamber in 1956.
Film and culture lovers also remember the premiere of the film “The Sinner” with Hildegard Knef in 1951, which caused quite a stir in society. The day is also one of the most significant politically: in 1701, Elector Friedrich III was crowned. of Brandenburg became king in Königsberg and heralded the founding of the Royal House of Prussia.
personalities of the day
The birthday boy of the day includes Pep Guardiola, who plays an important role in football. He is 55 years old and has enjoyed great success with clubs such as FC Bayern Munich and Manchester City. Alexander Van der Bellen, the Austrian Federal President, can also celebrate his 82nd birthday today. He has had a long career and has had a significant influence on political events in Austria.
January 18th reminds us not only of the past, but also of the importance of remembering the stories of those affected. With this in mind, a memorial event took place today on the 30th anniversary of the Lübeck arson attack to commemorate the victims and keep the collective memory alive.