Thursday, 24 October
Police investigate arson, open-air laboratory at Britzer Garden collapses
According to a statement provided by rbb, the Berlin police are investigating a fire at Britzer Garden in Neukölln for arson. The 1,200 square meter open-air laboratory burned down during the night, causing severe damage to other parts of the garden.
District mayor Martin Hikel (SPD) said it was a very sad day for Neukölln. There have been several previous arson attacks at Britzer Garden. One notable loss has been the destruction of the environmental education centre for children and young people who studied there on a daily basis.
The single-story detached training building caught fire and completely collapsed, according to the fire brigade. No one was injured during the fire. The collapsed parts of the building are to be pulled apart with a wheel loader and technical service equipment in order to successfully reach the remaining burning embers. There are currently 34 firefighters on duty who are busy with extinguishing work. The outdoor laboratory has been in existence since 1987.
