On January 18, 1996, ten people died in an arson attack on an asylum seekers' home in Lübeck's Hafenstraße. The case remains unsolved, with no one convicted. On the 30th anniversary, demonstrators demand new investigations, and a citizen initiative seeks clues.
In the night to January 18, 1996, a devastating fire broke out in an asylum seekers' home in Lübeck's Hafenstraße. Ten people lost their lives, including refugees. The attack was classified as arson, but despite investigations, no perpetrator was convicted. This case joins a dark series of racist attacks, such as those in Hoyerswerda, Rostock, Mölln, and Solingen.
30 years later, in 2026, the anniversary is marked by a demonstration. Around 650 participants gathered to commemorate the victims and demand new investigations. A survivor reported how the attack changed her life forever. The citizen initiative now appeals to the public and seeks new clues to finally solve the case.
The unsolved status raises questions about the rule of law. Something that should not happen in a democratic country occurred: The perpetrators escaped punishment. The initiative hopes that fresh leads will bring justice for the victims.
