Three people, including a 10-month-old girl, were killed on Sunday when high winds toppled a 100-foot tree during an Easter egg hunt in northern Germany. The incident occurred near the town of Satrupholm, where around 50 people from a state-funded residential facility for new mothers, pregnant women, and children were participating in the event. Four individuals were pinned under the tree, and first responders were unable to save a 21-year-old woman and a 16-year-old girl, who died at the scene. The infant later died in the hospital, while an 18-year-old woman sustained serious injuries and was airlifted for treatment.
The German Weather Service had issued a high winds warning for the region, with gusts reaching up to nearly 50 mph in exposed areas. Authorities are investigating whether pre-existing damage or disease contributed to the tree's collapse. The facility, part of the state-funded child welfare system, provides support for vulnerable women and children. Grief counselors were dispatched to the scene following the tragedy.
Regional officials expressed shock and condolences, with Governor Daniel Günther, Interior Minister Magdalena Finke, and Youth and Families Minister Aminata Touré issuing a joint statement expressing their grief and support for the affected families.