May 27 (UPI) — Seven firefighters were injured battling a fire at a German amusement park overnight, local police said Sunday.
Offenburg police said no staff or guests at Europa-Park in Rust were injured, but seven firefighters were treated for injuries sustained while working to put out the blaze. They were all treated at a local hospital and subsequently released.
About 250 firefighters responded to the blaze, managing to extinguish it early Sunday morning, according to the park’s official press channel.
The fire took place near the Pirates of Batavia boat ride in the Scandinavian-themed area of the park and caused extensive damage there as well as at the Dutch-themed portion of the park, Europa-Park chief executive Michael Mack wrote on Twitter.
“A sad day for Europa-Park thanks to all who help us to save our life’s work!” Mack said. “Can’t express my feelings. Lost Batavia and Norway completely but so far no person [was] hurt.”
He added that the Iceland, Portugal, Luxembourg Place and Colonial House sections of the park didn’t sustain any damage.
The park opened and accepted guests Sunday, although portions affected by the fire remained closed.
“Although today was not the easiest day in our long history I want to thank our hard working and dedicated employees, emergency services teams and of course our great fans for making today go so well. A big thank you!” Mack said.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
