Accidental blowtorch fire destroys carport and annex in Niersbach, 100 firefighters respond
A 70-year-old man accidentally started a fire in his workshop in Niersbach, Germany, while using a blowtorch. The blaze consumed a carport and an annex before firefighters stopped it from spreading to the house.
Incident
A 70-year-old resident of Niersbach, in the Bernkastel-Wittlich district of the Eifel region, was working in his private workshop on Saturday evening, 13 June 2026, when a fire broke out. The man had been using a Lötlampe (a blowtorch or soldering torch) for unspecified work. The flame ignited materials, quickly engulfing the adjacent carport and an annex.
The man attempted to fight the fire with a handheld extinguisher but was unsuccessful. He then alerted the fire brigade.
Fire service response
Approximately 100 firefighters from local units arrived at the scene. Their prompt response prevented the flames from spreading to the main residential building and any neighboring structures. The operation lasted several hours.
Casualties
Three people were treated by ambulance crews for suspected mild smoke inhalation. No serious injuries were reported.
Aftermath
The carport and annex were destroyed. Police have not yet estimated the total damage cost. Investigations into the exact cause are ongoing.
