Two children are suspected in connection with a major terrain fire that occurred in Ørland, Norway, over the weekend, resulting in extensive damage to the area and the evacuation of residents. According to Trøndelag police district prosecutor Mette Kollstrøm, the children notified authorities about the fire themselves, which had started around 4 PM on Saturday afternoon. The initial incident was classified as a heath fire but escalated to encompass approximately 4.5 square kilometers of land, leading to the evacuation of 45 people.

The prosecutor has confirmed that no criminal charges will be brought against the children, but police will conduct interviews to understand the circumstances surrounding the fire. It was reported that the fire potentially started as a result of playing with a lighter, although further investigation is needed to confirm this detail. Kollstrøm emphasized the importance of gathering facts during the investigation, especially as the initial information was provided at the time the fire broke out.

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns regarding fire safety and the potential consequences of children's play in natural environments. The impact of the fire not only affected the local landscape but also posed risks to the community by necessitating evacuations. As inquiries proceed, the case raises broader questions about accountability and safety in recreational areas.