Investigation into Tuzla Retirement Home fire broadens as cause determined

According to the official report of the electrical experts, the fire was caused by a short circuit in the wires of a radio receiver’s power cable, which at the time of the fire was plugged into an outlet and pinched between a mattress, a wall, and the metal frame of a bed in the room of one of the residents. The primary cause is cited first as mechanical, and then thermal, stress on the cable, which led to ignition.

The Prosecutor’s Office emphasizes that these findings represent only the initial phase of a comprehensive investigation, and that responsibility and possible negligence will be examined further to clarify all circumstances and assess whether the consequences could have been prevented or mitigated.

A special investigative team has been formed, consisting of two prosecutors and investigators from the Criminal Police Sector of the TC Ministry of Interior. The team is already conducting numerous investigative actions, including evidence collection, document seizure, witness interviews, and planning additional expert examinations.

The investigation will cover all aspects of the causal chain, verification of fire protection measures, technical compliance of installations, and the conduct of responsible persons at the Retirement Home. The Prosecutor's Office states that the focus of the investigation will be potential criminal offenses, including serious crimes against public safety of people and property related to causing general danger with fatal consequences, as well as negligent performance of official duties.