Major fire in the Otto district: investigations into suspected arson!

In the Otto Quarter in Wendlingen (Esslingen district) there was a devastating fire in a historic factory hall on the evening of December 23, 2024. According to the Esslinger newspaper The fire brigade mobilized around 180 emergency services to fight the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring listed buildings. The extinguishing work lasted until the early hours of the following day. No one was injured, although the property damage is estimated at a high six-figure euro amount.

The criminal police have started an investigation and expressed suspicion of arson. There are initial indications that several minors could have been involved in the fire. The investigation could drag on for weeks or months until the case is brought to justice. The affected building belonged to the Munich company Isaria, a subsidiary of Quarterback Immobilien, and was empty at the time of the fire and slated for demolition.

Factory building burned down

The factory hall, which was built in 1925 and is not listed, was largely destroyed. The Munich company Isaria is planning a mixed-use district on the 17,500 square meter site, two thirds of which will be earmarked for living space. The planned facilities include doctor's offices, a daycare center, further education facilities and a supermarket.

Another report on my Stuttgart describes that the fire department began around 9:30 p.m. after smoke was noticed above the empty factory building. A police helicopter was also used to monitor the situation during the extinguishing work. During the extinguishing work there were restrictions on the nearby S1 S-Bahn line. The mayor of Wendlingen, Steffen Weigel, was relieved about the successful protection of the valuable historical buildings in the area.

The fire watch continues to prevent the fire from flaring up again.