Danish police have officially closed the investigation surrounding the massive fire at Copenhagen's Old Stock Exchange, confirming on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, there is no evidence to suggest the blaze was the result of criminal activity. This decision follows extensive forensic work, review of surveillance footage, and interviews with numerous witnesses, as revealed by Brian Belling, the officer leading the case.
Despite their thorough efforts, Belling explained, "Our assessment is we have explored all relevant investigative possibilities in the case," with no charges laid against anyone. Through their inquiries, police managed to secure hours of footage from inside the Stock Exchange before it was damaged by the fire. They reported no flammable liquids were found as part of their investigation.
The fire, which took place early on the morning of April 16, was particularly destructive, consuming over half of the historic 400-year-old building. The famed green copper roof and the iconic dragon-tail spire, key features of the architecture, were both toppled as flames engulfed the structure. Tragically, two days following the fire, significant portions of the outer wall of the building collapsed.
The Old Stock Exchange, known locally as Børsen, is not only historically significant, but also serves as a major tourist destination. According to reports, many brave souls rushed to save valuable artworks, managing to rescue approximately 90% of the cultural artifacts contained within the building.
Authorities speculate the fire may have originated from renovation works being conducted on the roof, which was wrapped in scaffolding at the time. Belling mentioned the renovation project was underway to prepare for the building's anniversary celebration planned for 2024, adding, "There is guidance for listed buildings when renovating them. It is our opinion, these guidelines have been followed to the letter,” according to Tim Ole Simonsen from the Greater Copenhagen Fire Department. He noted, “Then you can discuss whether they are good enough.”
On September 24, 2024, King Frederik X of Denmark laid the “foundation stone” for reconstruction efforts on part of the red brick wall preserved after the incident, signaling the start of what will be years of restoration work. The Chamber of Commerce, which owns the exchange, has pledged to restore this landmark structure, well-regarded for its representation of the Dutch Renaissance architectural style. Construction of the building began back in 1615, with its grand opening occurring almost a decade later, in 1624.
This devastating fire stirred memories for many of another tragic event—the catastrophic fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which also drew widespread attention and concern for cultural heritage. The similar catastrophic impact of these incidents emphasizes the significance of preserving cultural sites.
