Roof fire at Motorex chemical plant in Langenthal injures firefighter, forces railway closure

Fire breaks out during roof work

On Tuesday evening, 28 July 2026, a fire erupted on the roof of the Motorex building at Bern-Zürichstrasse in Langenthal, canton Bern. The alarm was raised shortly after 17:30. The roof was undergoing renovation, and welding work on a seal ignited a gas cylinder, according to Motorex CEO Edi Fischer. The fire quickly spread, and two gas cylinders burst, causing explosions that were heard by nearby residents. One eyewitness told 20 Minuten that his house shook and that a portable toilet on the roof melted. A large column of black smoke rose from the site, visible in media images.

We were lucky in misfortune. The upper floor has seminar rooms. No chemicals burned.

Emergency response and warnings

The fire brigade arrived to find the roof fully ablaze and deployed a turntable ladder. The building was evacuated. One firefighter sustained minor injuries; no other injuries were reported. The cantonal police confirmed that no chemicals were involved in the fire. Alertswiss issued a warning about strong smoke and an intense, unpleasant odor, advising residents to close windows and doors, turn off ventilation and air conditioning, and avoid the area. The warning remained in place for several hours.

Traffic disruption and railway closure

The fire caused significant traffic disruption. The railway line between Langenthal and Melchnau was completely closed for the duration of the operation, leading to delays in public and private transport. Authorities urged motorists to avoid the area.

Aftermath and investigation

By 18:30, the fire was extinguished, and a fire watch was set up. The Bern cantonal police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and the extent of the property damage. No estimate of the damage was immediately available.