A fire broke out in a residential apartment above the Sophienhof shopping center in downtown Kiel during the evening. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames; however, reports have emerged of multiple individuals still missing from the building. A neighbor alerted emergency services after hearing cries for help coming from the apartment engulfed in flames. The police confirmed that flames were visible from the window of the affected unit, prompting an immediate response.

The fire department has confirmed that the affected building, which houses the shopping center, has been evacuated. As the emergency response continues, no injuries have yet been reported, although the situation remains critical with ongoing searches for individuals believed to be trapped. Authorities are working closely with firefighting units, emergency medical services, and police to ensure the safety of any potential survivors still within the structure.

As the incident unfolds, the implications of the fire raise concerns regarding building safety and emergency preparedness. The response teams are focusing on recovery efforts, given the distressing reports of missing persons. Local residents are anxious as the search continues, and further updates from local authorities are anticipated in the coming hours.