Accident or self-ignition likely cause of major Norwegian fire, police say

Norwegian police are investigating a massive fire that devastated the city of Drammen, with current assessments pointing towards accidental causes or self-ignition. Local authorities have ruled out other origins for the blaze.

"There is nothing to suggest that the fire originated in any way other than by accident or self-ignition," stated Simon Gerhardsen, head of department for the Norwegian police, to local newspaper Drammens Tidende.

The inferno left more than 100 homes severely damaged and forced the evacuation of over 400 residents. While the fire was brought under control by Saturday evening, and no missing persons have been reported, the heat at the scene has prevented investigators from commencing their technical examination.

Police are collecting images and videos from the area to reconstruct the fire's origin. Residents have been interviewed as witnesses, and the investigation continues.

“

There is nothing to suggest that the fire originated in any way other than by accident or self-ignition.