A fire broke out inside a cell at the Regional Prison Bern on Thursday, leading to the evacuation of multiple cells due to significant smoke development. Prison staff managed to extinguish the blaze before emergency services arrived. Authorities suspect the fire was intentionally set by an inmate.
Key Takeaways
- A fire occurred in a cell at the Regional Prison Bern.
- Multiple prison cells were evacuated due to smoke.
- One 19-year-old inmate was hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
- Police believe the fire was set intentionally.
- The affected cell is currently unusable.
Emergency Response and Evacuations
The incident at the Regional Prison Bern unfolded on Thursday morning. Prison employees acted quickly, bringing the fire under control and extinguishing it before the arrival of the Bern Cantonal Police and fire department units. Their swift action prevented the fire from spreading further.
Despite the rapid containment of the flames, the fire produced a substantial amount of smoke. This required the immediate evacuation of several adjacent prison cells. Inmates from these affected areas were moved to another section of the facility to ensure their safety and well-being.
Incident Details
- Location: Regional Prison Bern
- Date: Thursday morning
- Initial Response: Prison staff extinguished the fire
- Impact: Smoke-related evacuations, one inmate hospitalized
Inmate Hospitalized and Investigation Underway
A 19-year-old inmate, who was alone in the cell where the fire originated, was transported to a hospital by ambulance. He is being treated for suspected smoke inhalation. His condition is currently stable.
The affected cell has been declared unusable following the incident. Damages are being assessed, and repairs will be necessary before it can be occupied again. The precise cause of the fire remains under investigation by the police.
"The immediate priority was the safety of all inmates and staff. Our teams responded quickly to contain the situation," stated a police spokesperson.
Suspected Arson and Ongoing Inquiry
Authorities have indicated that the fire was likely set intentionally. The Bern Cantonal Police are pursuing this line of inquiry, focusing on the actions of the 19-year-old inmate involved. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to gather all relevant evidence.
Such incidents inside correctional facilities raise questions about security protocols and inmate oversight. The police are working to piece together a clear timeline of events and understand the motivations behind the suspected arson.
Bern Prison System Challenges
The Bern prison system has faced challenges related to overcrowding in recent years. Reports have highlighted the need for more space, with some facilities converting administrative areas into cells to accommodate the inmate population. This incident may add to the existing pressures on the prison infrastructure.
Impact on Prison Operations
The evacuation and the temporary unsuitability of one cell will likely have a minor impact on the daily operations of the Regional Prison Bern. Prison management will need to reallocate resources and manage space efficiently to ensure continued smooth functioning while the affected cell undergoes repairs.
Ensuring the security and safety of both inmates and staff remains paramount. Incidents like these underscore the complex environment within correctional facilities and the need for robust emergency response plans.
- The investigation is being conducted by the Bern Cantonal Police.
- The focus is on determining the exact cause and intent behind the fire.
- The 19-year-old inmate remains a central figure in the inquiry.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The Bern News Today team will continue to monitor this developing story.