Berlin, February 4 – The Berlin Fire Department successfully extinguished a fire that broke out yesterday afternoon on commercial premises at Markgrafendamm, near Ostkreuz, in the Friedrichshain district. The swift action of approximately 40 firefighters prevented the fire from escalating and causing more significant damage.
Firefighters Battle Blaze on Commercial Premises
The incident, reported yesterday afternoon, involved a fire in an annex building covering an area of approximately 50 square meters. The building was used for storing various materials, including several compressed gas cylinders and paper bales. Firefighters quickly secured these potentially hazardous items and worked to prevent the flames from spreading to neighboring structures.
Challenging Conditions for Firefighters
According to a statement from the Berlin Fire Department, the operation presented several challenges. “The roof of the annex had to be opened extensively, and parts of the roof structure had to be torn down to reach all embers,” said a fire department spokesperson. One person sustained minor injuries but was treated on-site by emergency medical services and did not require hospitalization.
The Markgrafendamm road, near Laskerstraße, was closed to traffic for the duration of the firefighting efforts, causing temporary disruptions in the area. The fire department’s prompt response and efficient handling of the situation were crucial in preventing a larger catastrophe, especially given the presence of flammable materials.
Other Incidents Reported Across Berlin and Brandenburg
The fire in Friedrichshain was one of several incidents reported across Berlin and Brandenburg yesterday. In Templin, Uckermark, illegal fireworks were discovered during a residential fire, which police believe was caused by an out-of-control chimney fire. The fireworks, categorized as F4, required a special permit and were confiscated, leading to an investigation into a violation of the Explosives Act. The fire caused an estimated 100,000 euros in damages.
Separately, in Blumberg, Barnim, a regional train collided with a car at an unguarded railway crossing. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident caused disruptions to train services reaching as far as Berlin-Ostkreuz station. The car had reportedly rolled onto the tracks and become stuck for unknown reasons.
Robberies and Assaults in Berlin
Berlin also saw several criminal incidents. In Kreuzberg, an 18-year-old was robbed and assaulted by a man who forced him to withdraw money from an ATM. Police were able to apprehend a suspect using the stolen headphones as a lead. In an unrelated incident, a jewelry store owner and an employee in Berlin-Rudow were assaulted with a liquid during a robbery.
Furthermore, alleged arson incidents were reported in Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. In Friedrichshain, a construction container used as a shelter for homeless individuals and a moped were set ablaze. In Kreuzberg, a homeless camp, including mattresses and a tent, caught fire, with investigators not ruling out arson.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Safety Concerns
Authorities are currently investigating the causes and circumstances of these various incidents. The police emphasize the importance of public safety and urge anyone with information related to these events to come forward. The repeated instances of street crime and property damage highlight ongoing concerns for residents and businesses in the region.
The Berlin Fire Department and local police continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the community, responding to emergencies and investigating criminal activities across the city and surrounding areas.
Source: morgenpost.de
