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Dresden Prosecutors Close Staatsoperette Fire Case Over Suspects’ Age

Investigators reported no indications of older participants in the June blaze.

Overview

  • The Dresden public prosecutor discontinued the investigation on 30 October 2025 for legal reasons tied to the suspects’ ages.
  • Five children, three aged 11 and two aged 12 at the time, were identified as suspects in the 6 June incident.
  • Authorities allege the group entered the auditorium and ignited paper with lighters, leading to the building’s destruction.
  • German law deems children under 14 not criminally responsible, which prevents charges in this case.
  • Roughly 150 firefighters fought the June fire for about 18 hours, demolition is ongoing, and a separate September blaze at the site was linked to cable theft.