Forest Fires Near Fontainebleau Contained – Four People Still in Custody

Fontainebleau – 14/07/2026: The two severe forest fires in the Fontainebleau forest in Seine-et-Marne have been contained within their respective burn areas after 48 hours of operations. However, according to Prefect Pierre Ory, the fires have not yet been fully extinguished. Around 800 firefighters had battled the spread of the flames, which, according to the latest situation report, have affected just over 2,000 hectares.

Emergency crews must prepare for a lengthy mop-up operation. Smoldering hotspots and difficult-to-access areas may flare up again, meaning firefighters are likely to remain on site for several days or weeks. Firefighting aircraft and helicopters, as well as extensive ground crews, remain available for the operation. Authorities consider the more stable weather conditions a relief for the response effort.

Several possible causes of the fires are at the center of the investigation. According to the Fontainebleau public prosecutor’s office, six people were initially placed in police custody on Tuesday. Two of those measures ended in the afternoon. This meant that four people remained in investigators’ custody in the evening. The investigations are continuing; no decision has yet been made on possible criminal consequences.

According to media reports, those still affected include a volunteer firefighter. He is said to have admitted setting fire to branches. The Seine-et-Marne fire and rescue service suspended him from duty after learning of the allegations and said it was particularly dismayed by the suspicion. Investigators are examining whether, and to what extent, there is a connection to one of the fires.

One major fire developed near the A6 motorway and, according to authorities, affected around 1,600 hectares within two days. The transport route had to be closed temporarily. Other fire sites in the forest massif area were also investigated. The public prosecutor’s office stressed that the causes have not yet been fully clarified and that the investigation must proceed without prejudgment.

For residents and visitors, the situation remains tense despite the successful containment of the flames. Authorities may continue to cordon off individual areas so that fire engines and investigators can work without obstruction. In a forest fire area, dangers from smoke, hot ground, falling trees and concealed smoldering hotspots remain even after the flames have stopped spreading.

The Fontainebleau forest south of Paris is one of the most important natural and recreational areas in the Ile-de-France region. The current fire has affected an exceptionally large area there. The next phase of the operation will focus on reliably extinguishing remaining hotspots, detecting new outbreaks early and securing the affected zones for the investigation.