That is what I intended to convey with "scared to death" which in English is used colloquially to mean "terrified". I appreciate that translation is likely the

That is what I intended to convey with "scared to death" which in English is used colloquially to mean "terrified". I appreciate that translation is likely the intended meaning. I gave both translations because the term used was "livrädd", not merely "rädd". This could be an intentional obfuscation of the sentiment behind the words - thus, it could be read to state they said they were "scared to death" (or "terrified" if you prefer) or actually in fear for their lives. Implications with plausible deniability.