IPSE, one of Berlin’s most iconic clubs was the victim of an arson attack yesterday, resulting in serious damage. The fire caused the complete destruction of the entire indoor area and parts of the outdoor area.
“We are still speechless. Standing in the ruins of what dozens of people put years of energy and passion into is almost excruciating – and it is unbearable to imagine that this happened purposefully.“
A similar tragedy is never welcome, but the current economic and lockdown situation makes this even more dramatic. The fire started around 5 AM CEST and was eliminated by 1 PM. One firefighter was sent to the hospital following the operation, according to the German media Der Tagesspiegel.
To make things worse, and according to IPSE, insurance companies are refusing to compensate for the damage of the inventory, including technical equipment.
Donation campaign
“Despite this unprecedented situation, we all positive that we will continue. We have set up a donation campaign with which you can support us and ensure that one of the last open-air clubs in Berlin is preserved.”
The Berlin club shared on its Facebook page the devastating news but insisted on staying positive. IPSE has set up a fund-raising campaign to help the venue stay alive after the Covid-19 crisis and the arson. If you want to help, learn more here.