Only a charred skeleton remained of the apartment block on Schörgenhubstrasse in Linz-Kleinmünchen. The roof structure and the upper living level fell into flames at the beginning of December. Those apartments that were spared from the flames were badly damaged by the fire fighting water, the OÖN reported.
Now, just a few days before Christmas, ten tenants are allowed to return to their apartments. The restoration work is still in full swing. “In the past few days we have worked with partner companies around the clock, on public holidays and at the weekend, so that we can get an overview of the damage as quickly as possible and start repairing the damage,” says Nicola Moser, deputy chairman of the housing association Family. Around 70 tenants had become homeless as a result of the fire. Many were accommodated with relatives. “A big thank you to all of those who took you in and gave you hostel so shortly before Christmas,” says Moser.
Man had 4.5 per mille
Four apartments in the block will probably not be usable for a longer period of time. They have to be completely renovated. The renovation of the house will take several months, according to the property management.
A burning cigarette may have started the fire. The suspect, who lived on one of the upper floors of the apartment, is said to have had 4.5 per thousand alcohol in his blood. He suffered smoke inhalation and had to be hospitalized.
The police and judiciary are still investigating the case. It is investigated whether the fire was caused by negligent arson. The prosecution is still waiting for a written report from the police, said Ulrike Breiteneder, spokeswoman for the Linz public prosecutor, on Wednesday at the request of the OÖNachrichten.
Source: Nachrichten
