An investigation is underway after a fire broke out in a multi-family apartment building on Mühlemattstrasse in Bern on the evening of December 20, 2025. Authorities suspect arson as the cause of the blaze, which originated in a ground-floor business premises.
Key Takeaways
- Fire reported at Mühlemattstrasse on December 20, 2025, around 11:05 PM.
- Blaze started in a business on the ground floor of an apartment building.
- Residents were evacuated, and no injuries were reported.
- Damage occurred to the business premises.
- Police suspect arson and are seeking witnesses.
Emergency Response and Evacuation Efforts
The Kantonspolizei Bern received an alert regarding significant smoke development in the apartment building shortly after 11:05 PM on Saturday, December 20, 2025. Emergency services, including the professional fire brigade of Schutz und Rettung Bern, quickly arrived at the scene.
Responders immediately identified heavy smoke in the stairwell. They located the source of the fire within a business operating on the building's ground floor. Firefighters from Schutz und Rettung Bern, supported by the Bern-Ost fire corps, rapidly brought the situation under control.
Incident Timeline
- 23:05 (11:05 PM): Police receive report of heavy smoke.
- Rapid Response: Emergency services deploy to Mühlemattstrasse.
- Fire Localization: Blaze found in ground-floor business.
- Quick Extinguishment: Fire brought under control and extinguished promptly.
Residents Evacuated Safely
All residents of the multi-family building were successfully evacuated during the incident. A team from the rescue service was on standby as a precautionary measure. They checked six individuals for any potential health impacts.
Fortunately, no one sustained any injuries. This quick and efficient evacuation ensured the safety of all occupants. The Mühlemattstrasse remained closed to traffic for the duration of the firefighting operations.
Investigation Points to Arson
Following the successful extinguishing of the fire, the focus shifted to determining its cause. The Bern Cantonal Police's Department for Fires and Explosions launched an immediate investigation. Their initial findings suggest a serious possibility.
According to police statements, arson is currently the primary suspected cause of the fire. Investigators are working to gather all available evidence to confirm this assessment and identify those responsible.
"Brandstiftung als Brandursache dürfte im Vordergrund stehen."
– Kantonspolizei Bern
Seeking Public Assistance
In light of the suspected arson, the Bern Cantonal Police are appealing to the public for assistance. They are specifically looking for witnesses who may have observed suspicious activity in the vicinity of Mühlemattstrasse.
Individuals who noticed anything unusual between 10:15 PM and 11:15 PM on the night of the fire, December 20, 2025, are urged to come forward. Any information, no matter how minor it may seem, could be crucial to the investigation.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
The Bern Cantonal Police can be reached at +41 31 303 25 31. This number is available for anyone with relevant information regarding the Mühlemattstrasse fire.
Damage and Aftermath
While residents were able to return to their homes after the firefighting efforts concluded, the ground-floor business suffered property damage. The exact extent and cost of this damage are still under investigation by police.
The incident highlights the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. Prompt reporting of suspicious activities can often prevent serious incidents or aid in solving crimes.
Community Impact
Fires, especially those suspected of being arson, can have a significant impact on local communities. They cause not only material damage but also create a sense of unease among residents. The police investigation aims to bring clarity and justice to the situation.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation. They ensure the safety and well-being of the affected residents. The ongoing investigation will determine the full circumstances surrounding this serious incident.