Apartment Fire in Świnoujście: Witnesses Point to Suspicious Man

A major blaze broke out on the top floor of an apartment building in downtown Świnoujście early Tuesday morning, forcing the emergency evacuation of 70 residents and requiring a massive firefighting effort.

Firefighting Operation and Evacuation

The fire started on the top floor of a four-story building located at the intersection of Grunwaldzka and Rybaki streets. Junior Brigadier Katarzyna Hołota of the State Fire Service reported that 39 firefighters and 15 units from the Świnoujście and Kamień districts were deployed to manage the fire, which affected approximately 900 square meters.

A total of 70 people were evacuated, including two via mechanical ladders. No injuries were reported, and the situation is now under control. City officials provided an evacuation bus and temporary housing for displaced residents.

Witness Accounts of a Suspicious Individual

Witnesses reported seeing a man near the burning building who made unsettling remarks. According to reports from iswinoujscie.pl, the man allegedly stated, “What have I done? I set their place on fire,” while observing the rescue operation.

Police officers detained the man at the scene for questioning. During the interview, the individual denied any involvement in the incident and was subsequently released by authorities.

Structural Damage and Investigation

The fire spread rapidly, causing a partial collapse of the roof. Debris from the structure fell onto the sidewalk below. Mayor Joanna Agatowska stated that a building inspector would assess the site to determine the safety of the structure following the conclusion of the firefighting operations.