Copenhagen, Denmark – A significant explosion at a convenience store on Istedgade street sent shockwaves through the local community late Thursday evening, prompting police to arrest three individuals in connection with the incident. The explosion, which occurred around 7:37 p.m., left the store engulfed in flames but fortunately resulted in no injuries to those inside.
Yasar Koyuncu, the owner of 1001 Nat Kiosk, recalled the chaotic moment vividly. Witnesses reported that the blast originated from the storefront, leading Koyuncu to flee just moments before the fire spread rapidly. The explosion was characterized by a violent bang that shattered nearby windows, alarming patrons and businesses in the vicinity.
Thit Aaberg, an employee at a nearby café, described the scene as chaotic. She noted the loud eruption and the way it rattled her workplace, Bootleggers, which required the evacuation of around 35 people, including families with young children. Once outside, they received immediate assistance in the form of water and sugar to help them recover from the shock.
The fire’s intensity was alarming, with Aaberg estimating that it took approximately 40 minutes for fire crews to fully extinguish the flames. Eyewitnesses were left in disbelief, questioning the potential causes of the explosion. Aaberg indicated that she did not detect any gas odor, leading her to speculate about alternative explanations.
As night fell, police initiated a manhunt for a suspect seen fleeing the scene in dark clothing. While three individuals were taken into custody, details about their involvement remain unclear, with authorities disclosing that one of the suspects is a 19-year-old man who will be held for questioning until next week.
Muhammad Alkaaby, who owns a nearby grocery store, expressed disbelief over the unfolding events. He initially considered that the explosion might be linked to the alcohol inventory within the kiosk. Although he did not witness the explosion directly, he heard accounts of individuals running towards nearby Litauens Plads, adding to the atmosphere of tension in the area.
Local residents and business owners are now left grappling with the aftermath of this shocking event. As investigations continue, the community remains alert, seeking answers to what transpired during those harrowing moments on Istedgade.