Bottrop Apartment Fire Claims Two Lives, No Evidence of Arson

Police confirm the deadly fire was a tragic accident, with investigations ruling out arson or technical faults.

A fire in a Bottrop apartment building resulted in two deaths and ten injuries, including two individuals with severe injuries and a firefighter who was hurt during rescue efforts.
Police investigations found no indications of arson or technical malfunctions, confirming the fire as an accidental incident.
The victims, a man and a woman, remain unidentified due to the extent of burns, with DNA analysis expected to provide clarity in the coming days.
The building suffered significant damage, including fire, soot, and water damage, and is currently uninhabitable; repair costs are estimated at €500,000.
Utility services like gas and electricity have been shut off, and further assessments by experts are expected in the coming days.