Large-Scale Emergency Response Following Fire and Explosion in Munich

A significant emergency response was activated in Munich after reports of a fire and explosion in the Lerchenau neighborhood. Authorities are currently investigating the incident, which has resulted in the death of an individual believed to be connected to the events.

Police spokespersons indicated that specialized units are required to manage the ongoing situation, stating that access to the deceased has been restricted due to safety protocols. The police have deployed explosives detection dogs to thoroughly search the Oktoberfest grounds, a task expected to take considerable time and resources as the animals will need to inspect the area multiple times.

In response to a perceived threat, the Oktoberfest site has been closed to the public as precautionary measures are taken. Authorities are conducting searches in restricted access zones surrounding the festival area, urging festival staff to vacate the premises. Additional safety protocols are anticipated as the situation unfolds. The police have classified the threat as an unspecified bomb threat.

The Mayor of Munich has indicated that the Oktoberfest may remain closed throughout the day, emphasizing the commitment to safety. He stated that the police aim to complete a thorough search of the area by early afternoon to ensure the safety of all involved. Failure to meet this timeline could result in the festival not opening for the day.

Investigators are also examining potential links to activist groups, specifically Antifa. An online post attributed to the group claimed responsibility for several acts of vandalism, including the destruction of luxury vehicles in the city. The police are assessing this information along with other leads to determine any connections to the current incident.

Emergency services received a call at approximately 4:41 AM regarding loud explosions and visible flames in the area. The injured individual associated with the fire was reported to have died later in the morning. Initial findings suggest that the fire was intentionally set, with explosives discovered at the scene.

As a safety measure, law enforcement has established a 200-meter evacuation radius around the site of the fire, prompting the relocation of nearby residents and the closure of a nearby school. Firefighters, numbering around 100 personnel, are actively engaged in managing the situation and ensuring public safety.