Crime Story: Henriette W. was actually supposed to die that night. But then two people grew beyond themselves

At 2:23 a.m., the fire department’s rescue control center in Brandenburg an der Havel received an emergency call.

“My mom is being killed,” says a child in a tearful voice. “From dad,” it says.

“Where is that?” asks the man in the control center. “Pappelweg,” replies the girl, also gives the house number and, when asked, her name: “Lisa*.” (All names with * have been changed.)

“The mother will be killed?” asks the man.

“Yes, she’s already covered in blood.”

“And how old are you?”

“Nine.”

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