17 March 2005

MADRID-Murky figures seen inside the Windsor skyscraper in Madrid apparently as fire ravaged the building were actually reflections in the windows of the buildings overlooking, a report claims.

The Madrid Fire Department report said there were no people inside the building as had originally been suspected, discounting suspicions of arson.

The report appears to suggest the fire which destroyed the landmark skyscraper in Madrid was started by accident, rather than deliberately.

The amateur video, taken by someone living near the skyscraper, allegedly showed shadowy 'figures' inside the burning skyscraper.

It led investigators to believe arsonists could have broken in and started the fire.

Now it seems more likely the original theory -a short-circuit - might be more accurate.

Another ‘broken door’ under the building had suggested arsonists could have broken into the building and started the blaze.

But then red-faced fire-fighters admitted it was they who had broken into the building using  the door.

The 31-storey Windsor, an emblematic structure of the modern part of this capital, was devoured by flames early on 12 February in a huge fire which fire fighters could not bring under control.

Further investigation into the cause of the fire will be carried out once the charred structure is dismantled.

Meanwhile, the EUR 17.5 million demolition operation continues on the charred remains of the building and is likely to take up to 11 months.

[Copyright EFE with Expatica]

Subject: Spanish news