Partial collapse of an empty apartment building in Altenburg

An empty apartment building has partially collapsed in Altenburg. Several false ceilings in the building collapsed early Wednesday evening, the police said. “According to the current assessment, almost only the outer shell of the building remains standing.” There is a risk of collapse.

According to the Federal Agency for Technical Relief, there was also a risk to the neighboring buildings. Therefore, according to a spokesman for the city of Altenburg, around a dozen residents were evacuated from two neighboring buildings as a precaution. The city provided emergency shelter.

Drone and rescue dog team in action

Fire and police forces used a drone to get an overview. Since, according to the information, people were previously often in the empty building, a rescue dog team from the German Red Cross with rubble dogs was deployed. However, no people were found. According to the city, around 70 rescue workers were on site by late Wednesday evening.

To ensure security, four large containers were placed in front of the building. The rear parking lot was also closed.

Structural engineer on site

A structural engineer is scheduled to inspect the building today. According to a city spokesman, it should be clarified whether the house can remain standing in some form and when the residents can return to the neighboring houses.

The house is therefore privately owned, was obviously not in good condition and had been empty for a long time. The owner, who is based in another European country, was informed about the partial collapse. However, the dilapidated building was not on the city's list of dilapidated houses. No information has yet been given about the exact cause of the collapse or the amount of damage.