In Freiburg im Breisgau, a World War II bomb was successfully defused early Thursday morning, April 10, 2025, at 4 AM, after an extensive evacuation operation that affected more than 2,000 residents. The bomb, weighing approximately 250 kilograms, was discovered during construction work on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
The police reported that the bomb was found around 3:15 PM on April 9, 2025, in Albertstraße, located in the city center. Due to the bomb's deteriorating detonator, authorities deemed it necessary to defuse the device on-site as quickly as possible. Initial evacuation measures required a 100-meter radius around the bomb; however, this was expanded to 300 meters later that evening to ensure public safety.
Over 700 emergency personnel, including rescue services, firefighters, and police, were mobilized to manage the situation. The police stated, "More than 700 emergency personnel from various services were involved, including the Technical Relief Organization (THW) and the bomb disposal service from Stuttgart." These efforts included setting up large, sand-filled containers as shrapnel protection around critical areas prior to the bomb's defusal.
Among those affected by the evacuation were patients and staff from the nearby St. Josefskrankenhaus. The hospital's crisis management team had to implement extensive evacuation procedures for parts of the facility, including intensive care, maternity wards, and operating rooms. Two expectant mothers and 11 other patients were transferred to other clinics, while approximately 45 patients were discharged to accommodate those needing relocation.
As the situation developed, the police established a temporary shelter for evacuated residents at the nearby Weierhofschule, where local authorities coordinated assistance. The evacuation affected not only the residential area but also critical infrastructure, including the hospital, which is located within the expanded evacuation zone.
In a statement following the successful defusal, the police confirmed, "The closures have been lifted, and all residents can return to their homes." This announcement came shortly after the bomb disposal team completed their operation, allowing normalcy to return to the area. The bomb was identified as a British ordnance from World War II, a reminder of the historical conflicts that have left remnants in various parts of Germany.
The incident underscores the ongoing risks associated with unexploded ordnance, particularly in areas with a history of military activity. It is not uncommon for such devices to be discovered during construction or renovation projects, as experienced in Freiburg. The police noted that this was not the first time such a discovery was made in the city; just last December, a World War I projectile was found and safely detonated.
Authorities are now reviewing protocols for future incidents to ensure the safety of residents and the effectiveness of emergency responses. The successful evacuation and defusal operation reflect the preparedness of local emergency services in handling potentially dangerous situations.
In summary, Freiburg's experience with the World War II bomb serves as a cautionary tale about the lingering dangers of historical conflicts and the importance of community readiness in the face of unexpected challenges. With the threat neutralized, residents can now return to their homes, grateful for the swift and coordinated efforts of the emergency services.
