Will the flaming inferno in a bar in Graz also become a real scandal with the authorities? As the “Steirekrone” has learned, the devastating New Year’s Eve fire in the Stern restaurant in the city center of Graz could possibly have been prevented! And this can have legal consequences for several people: for the restaurant owner, but also for the fire brigade and the capital’s construction and facilities department.
But first and foremost: we revealed in our Tuesday issue that the Graz Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the operator of the counter on suspicion of murder by gross negligence and bodily harm by negligence. During the investigations into the completely destroyed guest room, some chilling fire protection deficiencies were discovered. Escape routes were blocked and fire extinguishers had expired.
Now the next big thing: Investigations are now underway against those responsible for fire protection in restaurants in the city of Graz. Or rather: would have been responsible?
“We are interested in clarification ourselves”
In concrete terms, this concerns the suspicion of abuse of office (§ 302 according to the Criminal Code), which employees of the fire brigade and the building and facilities service are now confronted with. The magistrate “Steirekrone” confirmed on Tuesday that a corresponding notification had been received from the police – indicating that they were interested in clarifying the case and would cooperate with the judiciary.
Not locally controlled?
The ‘Steirekrone’ also received confirmation on Tuesday evening from Hansjörg Bacher, spokesperson for the Graz Public Prosecutor’s Office: “Specifically, we are investigating the possible neglect of the fire brigade’s checks and whether various requirements were not met.”
In plain language, this means that bars may not be inspected, even if the law requires them to be! If convicted, those responsible face a prison sentence of six months to five years. The presumption of innocence applies to everyone.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
