**Grimsbach, Bavaria –** In a desperate and harrowing confrontation, Gretel Schmidt, one half of the Schmidt brothers’ Witch Hunter team, made the ultimate sacrifice yesterday evening to permanently contain the ancient demon, Vorlag, within the ruins of a centuries-old gingerbread house deep within the Bavarian Forest. The event, witnessed by Hansel Schmidt and a contingent of Bavarian State Police, marks a significant, if devastating, victory in the ongoing war against supernatural threats plaguing the region.

The confrontation began shortly after 8:00 PM local time, following a prolonged and brutal battle with Vorlag, a demon believed to have been dormant for nearly 500 years. Initial reports indicated the demon was attempting to fully materialize within the confines of the structure, which authorities believe to be a nexus point for dark energies. Hansel, utilizing a modified sonic disruptor, managed to severely weaken Vorlag, allowing Gretel to seize the opportunity.

According to Sergeant Klaus Richter, lead investigator for the Bavarian State Police, Gretel, displaying a tactical brilliance previously unseen, constructed a complex network of enchanted iron chains, utilizing a combination of ancient runes and her own unique tracking skills. “She knew exactly where Vorlag would attempt to fully manifest,” Richter stated, visibly shaken. “It was…remarkable. A truly selfless act.”

The chains, once secured, forced the demon back into the ruins, effectively sealing him within the gingerbread structure. However, the process was not without cost. Gretel was consumed by the collapsing structure as the seal solidified, her last words reportedly a defiant, “He won’t hurt anyone anymore.”

Hansel Schmidt, visibly distraught but resolute, offered a brief statement to reporters. “Gretel always said she’d do whatever it took,” he said, his voice choked with emotion. “She was the best there was. We’ll keep hunting, for her.”

The Bavarian State Government has declared a period of mourning, and a memorial service is being planned for Gretel’s remains. Experts are currently analyzing the gingerbread house ruins, hoping to glean further insights into Vorlag’s origins and the nature of the dark energies he commanded. The hunt for other supernatural entities within the region continues.