Collapse of Single-Family Home in Stutensee: Rescue Forces Carefully Approach Trapped Man
Stutensee, Karlsruhe District, Germany – After a single-family home in Stutensee collapsed on Wednesday morning, rescue forces are meticulously working to reach a man trapped beneath the wreckage.
"We’re operating with urgency but cautiously," a police spokesperson emphasized. The partially overturned house remains highly unstable and poses a significant risk of further collapse.
The Technical Relief Agency (THW) has deployed a specialized monitoring system that detects movements in the millimeter range, a spokesperson for the fire department reported.
To ensure the safety of both the 73-year-old man trapped in the debris and the rescue personnel, the house’s ceiling, which has been tilted sideways, is being supported with beams and steel girders.
A substantial team of 75 firefighters, 25 THW personnel, and 15 from the German Red Cross (DRK) are on the scene, working tirelessly to extricate the victim.
The collapse occurred early Wednesday morning, and the cause remains undetermined. According to police, there had been an explosion prior to the incident. The fire department described the extent of damage as "significant."
Rescue Efforts Prioritize Safety
The rescue efforts are being carried out with the utmost care to avoid jeopardizing the trapped man or the rescuers themselves. The monitoring system allows the team to anticipate any potential structural instability, enabling them to adjust their approach accordingly.
"We’re proceeding one step at a time," the police spokesperson said. "Our top priority is ensuring the safety of everyone involved."
The firefighters are using specialized cutting and lifting equipment to clear a path through the wreckage. They are also utilizing hydraulic airbags to carefully lift and stabilize sections of the house to create a safe access route for the rescue.
The THW team, with their expertise in structural engineering and heavy lifting, is providing valuable support by stabilizing the unstable roof structure and mitigating the risk of further collapse.
Investigation into Cause Ongoing
Meanwhile, an investigation into the cause of the explosion and collapse is underway. Police, fire investigators, and structural engineers are examining the site, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses.
The results of the investigation will shed light on the factors that led to this tragic incident and help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Community Support for Affected Family
The collapse has deeply affected the Stutensee community. Neighbors and community members have come together to provide support and assistance to the family of the trapped man.
Counseling services are being offered to the family and anyone else who may have been traumatized by the incident. Local authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure that the family has access to necessary resources and support during this difficult time.
The thoughts and prayers of the community are with the trapped man and his family, as well as with the brave rescue workers who are tirelessly working to bring him to safety.
