By Trend News Line 2024-07-02 10:07:25.
**Tragic Fire Claims Lives of Minister and Family in Necedah**
In a devastating turn of events, a fire broke out in a rental home in Necedah, claiming the lives of a minister and his family members. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, left the usually quiet neighbourhood shocked and mourning the loss of six lives.
**Witness Account of the Tragic Incident**
Nadine Zielinski, a neighbour in the area, was the first to report the fire after hearing what she thought was the sound of fireworks. When she looked out of her window, she saw flames above the tree line and knew something was terribly wrong. The fire department responded to the call but unfortunately, it was too late to save the six individuals who were trapped inside the burning home.
**Victims identified**
The victims of the fire were identified as Rev. Steve Witte, his daughters Lydia Witte and Charis Kuehl, and his granddaughters Stella Kuehl, Lena Henselin, and Merci Henselin. Rev. Witte had served as a minister in the Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Green Bay before dedicating his life to overseas missionary work in southeast Asia. He and his wife were back in the U.S. on furlough and had been spending time with their family when the tragedy struck.
**Community Mourns the Loss**
The news of the fire has left the Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church community in shock and sadness. Rev. Witte was described as a dedicated and passionate minister who was looking forward to spending time with his loved ones before returning to his missionary work overseas. The church website paid tribute to the family, urging their members to keep all who mourn in their prayers.
**Neighbours Express Concern**
Neighbours in the area expressed concern about the number of people staying in the rental home. With four bedrooms, the house was said to have accommodated around 18 guests, which raised questions about overcrowding and safety. Despite the usual noise from the rental property, neighbours noted that the night of the fire was unusually quiet before the blaze took hold.
**Investigation Ongoing**
As the investigation into the fire continues, authorities are working with the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the State Fire Marshal to determine the cause of the tragic incident. The burnt remains of the home stand as a stark reminder of the lives lost and the impact of the fire on the close-knit community in Necedah.
**Conclusion**
The loss of six lives in the fire has left a deep sense of sorrow and grief in Necedah. The community is coming together to support each other and remember the victims of this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, more details may come to light about what led to the fire and how such a devastating loss could have occurred..
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