Gas system fault caused caravan fire and explosions in Olten

On 7 October, a caravan caught fire on Industriestrasse in Olten, Switzerland.

Solothurn cantonal police say a fault in the caravan’s gas system caused the fire.

A leak, possibly in gas pipes or distribution blocks, allowed gas to build up inside without being noticed.

When someone tried to light a cigarette, the gas-air mixture ignited, causing explosions and a fire that destroyed the caravan.

Two people were injured, one seriously.

Police have identified the likely cause through their investigation; no further steps are stated.