Tragic Incident at Berlin's ICC: Firefighters Discover Deceased Individual in Elevator

In a tragic event early Wednesday morning, firefighters responded to a fire outbreak in the elevator shaft of the International Congress Centrum (ICC) in Berlin. While the fire was extinguished swiftly, the operation led to the discovery of a lifeless body within the elevator.

According to a spokesperson for the emergency services, the fire ignited in an elevator shaft and was quickly controlled. However, upon concluding the firefighting efforts, the deceased person was found inside the elevator. The identity of the individual remains unknown at this time, with investigations ongoing to determine whether the person died as a result of the fire or prior to the incident.

The ICC complex was open this morning, as its parking facilities were being utilized for the ongoing 'Fruit Logistica' trade fair. Firefighters were deployed to the scene at approximately 6:54 AM, and additional smoke was reported on the 4th and 5th floors of the building. Fortunately, there were no other reported injuries from the incident.

A total of 83 firefighters were either present at the scene or en route to assist with the situation. Further details regarding the cause of the fire have yet to be disclosed, as authorities continue to investigate.

The ICC, inaugurated in 1979, has been a significant venue for international exhibitions and congresses, playing a vital role in the cultural and economic landscape of West Berlin for decades. After being closed in 2014, it has been designated as a protected monument since 2019.