Talented gymnast dies at just 16 years old
The German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) mourns the loss of its young talent Mia Sophie Lietke. As the association announced in consultation with her family, the gymnast died "suddenly and unexpectedly" last Thursday in Fellbach-Schmiden at the age of just 16. The DTB did not provide any information about the circumstances of her death when asked on Tuesday.
The Stuttgart public prosecutor's office has opened an investigation and arranged for an autopsy. The authorities confirmed to SWR that this was "a standard, legally required procedure". They are investigating "whether there are any indications that the unexplained death was caused by a third party".
Lietke was a training companion of five-time world champion Darja Varfolomeev at the performance center in Fellbach-Schmiden. She will remain in our hearts forever, the 17-year-old wrote on Instagram. "As a very great girl."
The 2022 German junior champion with the hoop had only moved from Berlin to the national team center for rhythmic gymnastics in January of this year, but continued to compete for her club Berliner TSC. "It is with great sadness" that the club mourns the unexpected death of Mia Lietke, the club wrote on its website.
Mia Sophie Lietke excelled in both gymnastics and rhythmic gymnastics, showing promise in both disciplines. Despite her recent move to the national team center for rhythmic gymnastics, she continued to represent Berliner TSC in competitions.
Source: www.dpa.com
