Three ONF employees in custody: investigation into major fire in the Corbières reopened

Carcassonne – 03.06.2026: Almost a year after the devastating large fire in the Corbières, which in August 2025 destroyed more than 16,000 hectares of land and claimed the life of one resident, three employees of the National Forest Management (ONF) have been taken into custody. This drastic measure gives new momentum to the investigation into the “fire of the century.” The goal is to thoroughly clarify the exact causes of the fire and the responsibilities involved.

The fire started on August 5, 2025, around 4:00 p.m. in the Massif of the Corbières in the department of Aude. Within a few hours, 36 houses were burned down, nearly 12,000 hectares of forest and 700 hectares of vineyards in 17 municipalities were destroyed. The investigators are now focusing mainly on possible errors or negligence in forest fire prevention and the deployment of authorities.

The arrest warrants for the three ONF employees are the result of intensive investigations aimed at clarifying the role of forest management in the outbreak and spread of the fire. The Carcassonne prosecutor’s office emphasizes that the investigation is still ongoing and that further measures, including against other responsible parties, are not excluded.

After the fire, the ONF implemented extensive security measures. In March 2026, soldiers from civil protection were deployed together with the department of Aude to remove burnt trees and secure hiking trails. These operations are important to reduce hazards for the population and prevent new risks posed by unstable tree trunks.

In parallel, reforestation projects and measures to promote natural forest regeneration are underway. These are crucial to combat soil erosion and restore biodiversity in the Corbières area. Experts stress the importance of long-term restoration and adaptation of forest areas to climate change.

The current developments have great significance beyond the region. They raise questions about prevention, crisis management, and responsibilities in forest fires in France. Many now expect clear insights into the cause of the fire and transparent handling of the matter.

ONF and the competent authorities assure that they are working intensively together to more effectively prevent future forest fires and better protect the country’s forests. The investigation is a high priority to hold those responsible accountable and regain the trust of the population.

The situation remains tense. In the coming weeks, there is keen anticipation about the findings of the investigation and the consequences that will follow. Only in this way can lessons be learned and appropriate measures developed to protect against new major fires.