Suspected arson in Amsterdam evacuates 55 homes, man arrested

A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out in an underground parking garage overnight Friday.

The parking garage is located on Theodoor van Hoytemastraat in Amsterdam Nieuw-West, where some 55 homes above it had to be evacuated.

The local safety authority, which coordinates emergency services, said the building sustained significant damage and that the apartments are currently uninhabitable. Power to the area has also temporarily been shut off.

Police are looking into the possibility that the incident stemmed from a personal conflict. The suspect was arrested early Friday morning.

One person at the scene went to hospital of their own accord, but no other injuries were reported. Five cars caught fire in the blaze, and the car park sustained heavy smoke and structural damage.

Residents were put up in a nearby hotel. As of Friday morning, they were still unable to return home pending a damage assessment. Authorities say the building’s electrical and sewage systems were also damaged.

Some surrounding homes and businesses have also been left without electricity.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident between 2-3am to contact the investigation tip line at 0800-6070.