Milan BRT depot fire extinguished, but two containers still pose explosion risk

The fire

A large fire broke out on the evening of 8 July 2026 at a BRT courier depot in via Don Giovanni Minzoni, in Milan's Bovisa district. The blaze engulfed one of the two central warehouses used for package sorting, covering an area of about 8,000 square metres. A tall column of black smoke was visible for kilometres, and explosions were heard. No injuries or intoxications were reported.

Firefighting response

Firefighters from Milan and the neighbouring Monza command responded with multiple vehicles. They had to break down a gate to access the site. Operations were complex, but by the morning of 9 July the fire was extinguished.

The timely and massive intervention contained the fires, preventing the spread to adjacent structures and the office building, which was not involved.

Thirty trailers were secured, and the office building remained untouched.

1. Evening 8 JulyFire breaks out at BRT depot in Bovisa, Milan.
2. OvernightFirefighters contain blaze, secure 30 trailers, prevent spread to offices.
3. Morning 9 JulyMain fire extinguished; two containers with e-bikes still burning, explosion risk.
4. 9 July daytimePrecautionary measures extended; ARPA continues air monitoring; investigation opened.

Ongoing explosion risk

Despite the main fire being out, two containers continue to burn. They contain electric bicycles, and authorities fear the batteries could cause explosions. Five fire crews are still on site, working to cool the containers and prevent any ignition. The situation is under control, but the risk persists.

Air quality and health precautions

ARPA Lombardia has been monitoring air quality since the fire began. Initial readings detected typical combustion pollutants but no critical concentrations. Nevertheless, health authorities extended precautionary measures through Thursday 9 July for residents within a 2 km radius: keep windows closed, avoid outdoor activities, children should not play outside, and do not consume locally grown fruit or vegetables.

These are precautionary measures, since the first air quality readings do not indicate the need for further measures beyond those already adopted when the fire broke out.

ARPA will continue monitoring and has placed a high-volume sampler to test for micro-pollutants like dioxins and furans.

## Investigation The Milan prosecutor's office has opened an inquiry into the fire. The cause remains unknown, but initial reports suggest the fire may have started from a container. The investigation is ongoing.