Danish police investigation finds no criminal cause for Copenhagen Old Stock Exchange fire
Iain Hoey
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Police conclude Old Stock Exchange fire probe
Danish police have formally closed their investigation into the fire that damaged Copenhagen’s historic Old Stock Exchange building in April.
The investigation revealed no indication that the blaze, which destroyed over half of the structure, was caused by criminal activity, according to an announcement on Tuesday and reported on by AP News.
Copenhagen Police investigator Brian Belling stated that despite comprehensive forensic examinations, including surveillance footage and interviews with numerous witnesses, authorities were unable to determine the cause of the fire.
He said: “It is not possible to determine the cause of the fire in the historic stock exchange building.” Belling added that all reasonable investigative avenues have been explored without finding any evidence of foul play.
Damage assessment and building’s historical impact
The fire, which erupted on the morning of 16 April, severely impacted the 400-year-old landmark, one of Copenhagen’s popular tourist attractions.
The blaze resulted in the collapse of the iconic green copper roof and dragon-tail spire.
Later, a significant portion of the building’s outer wall also gave way, highlighting the fire’s intensity.
The building, an example of Dutch Renaissance architecture, initially opened in 1624 and has been recognised as a prominent piece of Danish heritage.
The investigation included hours of video footage from undamaged sections of the building, which provided no indication of accelerants or inflammable liquids.
Police also considered the hypothesis that the fire may have been linked to ongoing renovation work at the site, yet found no concrete evidence to support this theory.
Community response and cultural preservation efforts
During the incident, members of the public, including volunteers, assisted in rescuing artwork and cultural artefacts from the building.
Approximately 90% of the preserved objects were successfully saved, according to officials, showcasing the community’s efforts to preserve cultural heritage despite the extensive damage to the structure.
Belling said that one potential cause of the fire could be linked to the renovation activities on the roof, which was scaffolded as part of a project scheduled for completion by the building’s anniversary in 2024.
He explained that existing guidelines for heritage buildings were followed during the renovation, though Greater Copenhagen Fire Department official Tim Ole Simonsen noted: “Then you can discuss whether they are good enough.”
Reconstruction plans led by Denmark’s Chamber of Commerce
Reconstruction of the Old Stock Exchange building is set to be an extensive, multi-year process, following the laying of a commemorative “foundation stone” by King Frederik X in September.
The Denmark Chamber of Commerce, which owns the building, has announced intentions to restore the landmark to its former state, preserving its status as a significant example of Dutch Renaissance architecture in Denmark.
The organisation affirmed its commitment to the restoration, and the rebuilding work has already commenced.
Initial construction of the exchange began in 1615, and it has since served as a key structure in Denmark’s architectural heritage.
Danish police investigation finds no criminal cause for Copenhagen Old Stock Exchange fire: Summary
Danish police have concluded their investigation into the fire at Copenhagen’s Old Stock Exchange, finding no criminal involvement.
Following extensive forensic examination, police stated that the cause of the April fire remains undetermined.
The blaze destroyed more than half of the 400-year-old building, causing significant structural damage, including the loss of the roof and part of the outer wall.
Renovation work underway at the time of the incident is considered a possible, though unconfirmed, factor.
Approximately 90% of the cultural artefacts within the building were successfully saved.
The Denmark Chamber of Commerce has initiated reconstruction efforts, beginning with a ceremonial foundation stone laid by King Frederik X in September.
