A New Year's Eve celebration on Germany's Baltic coast descended into horror after at least ten people mistakenly drank a highly corrosive cleaning liquid, believing it to be alcohol. The incident has left one woman in a medically induced coma.
A Festive Night Turns to Tragedy
The catastrophic error occurred at a restaurant in the seaside town of Timmendorfer Strand at around 8pm on December 31, 2025, as a group prepared to welcome the new year. According to reports from broadcaster NDR, the party was allegedly served the dangerous cleaning agent instead of Schnapps liqueurs.
The group, comprising three women and seven men aged between 31 and 84, quickly fell ill. Emergency services rushed to the scene after the victims began suffering from severe chemical burns.
Severe Injuries and Police Investigation
A spokesperson for the Integrated Regional Control Center South confirmed that those affected were treated for chemical injuries to their mouths, noses, and throats. The condition of one woman was so serious that doctors were forced to place her in a medically induced coma to aid her recovery.
Police spokesperson Anna Julia Meyer stated: “According to initial findings, at least 10 people ingested a highly corrosive liquid. Ten people suffered injuries, at least one of whom was seriously injured.” Authorities have since launched a full investigation on suspicion of negligent bodily harm.
A Chilling Historical Parallel
This is not the first time such a devastating mix-up has occurred in the region. In a grim echo of the past, a similar incident took place in November 2016 at a restaurant in Lübeck's old town. On that occasion, visitors were mistakenly served grill cleaner instead of alcohol.
In both cases, the confusion was attributed to the liquids being stored in identical white plastic canisters, highlighting a critical failure in safety and labelling protocols within hospitality venues.
The event has cast a shadow over the new year period, serving as a stark reminder of the potentially fatal consequences of improper chemical storage.
