After the arson involving a 13-year-old suspect, 370 children were distributed to another school. How the lessons are going – and what good news the children received.
After the major fire at a primary school in Hanover with estimated damage of around two million euros, the city has confirmed that the costs will be covered. The fire damage was covered by the state capital’s fire insurance, the office of Mayor Belit Onay (Greens) told the German Press Agency.
A 13-year-old from Hanover is said to have started the fire
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However, the city bears a deductible of 25,000 euros. It is currently unclear whether the family of the 13-year-old suspect or their liability insurance could be used.
According to earlier information from investigators, a 13-year-old from Hanover is suspected of setting the fire. The boy is considered to be of legal age. The police and public prosecutor’s office have not yet provided any information about a possible motive or the suspect’s connection to the school. According to the police, traces and burn patterns at the crime scene indicated arson. The fire broke out about two weeks ago.
City: Fire protection worked
The fire destroyed the auditorium, adjacent hallways, parts of the all-day area and sanitary facilities. Parts of the roof also collapsed. Other roof areas are considered at risk of collapse and the school building cannot be used for the time being.
According to the city, the incident also showed that the existing fire protection systems inside the building were working: fire compartments, smoke protection doors and smoke exhaust flaps prevented fire and smoke from spreading to other areas of the school.
Around 370 students are currently being taught kilometers away
The city explained that there is no absolute security against vandalism. When it comes to schools, there is also a conflict of objectives to keep schoolyards open to the neighborhood, which makes it more difficult to protect the buildings.
The approximately 370 students are currently being taught in a school about four kilometers away. Buses take you there. The city announced that classes are running fully and the shuttle that has been set up is working. Classes should take place there until the end of the 2025/26 school year. What happens next is currently being examined.
Fish from the school were saved from fire
There is also good news: fish from the school that were at risk in the fire were saved. They are currently being cared for at a pet store and are expected to return to school later.
