Helsinki: Police say Kontula shopping center's devastating fire caused by electrical fault

Helsinki police have concluded their investigation into a devastating fire at the Kontula shopping center, determining that a technical fault in an electrical appliance sparked the blaze. The fire, which occurred in the early morning of April 6, resulted in one fatality. Investigators found no evidence of criminal intent or negligence, ruling out human factors as the cause.

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The fire was caused by a technical fault in an electrical appliance.

The fire originated in a back room of the loading dock area within the shopping center. According to investigators, the electrical device malfunctioned, leading to the fire. The investigation focused on determining the cause of the fire and the cause of death for the individual who perished.

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In the matter, no crime is suspected.

The deceased was a man born in the 1960s who was an employee of the shopping center. He was legally present on the premises during his personal time when the fire broke out. Police stated that the victim had no connection to the fire's ignition.

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According to the police investigation, the fire started as a result of a technical fault in an electrical appliance located in the back room.

Rescue services reported in April that the fire primarily raged in the back and storage areas of a restaurant located within the shopping center. The intense flames spread to the roof structures, and smoke permeated the building extensively. The Kontula shopping center, built in 1967, is known as Finland's largest uncovered shopping center, and the city of Helsinki is currently planning a redevelopment of the area.

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According to the police, he was not connected to the fire.