Overview
- The protected ash on the Schlossteichinsel was cut down on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, after officials deemed it unsafe.
- City hall said required permits were in place, following an expert finding of extensive fungal decay that compromised stability.
- The tree had been deliberately set on fire in July 2025, then burned again on 2 January 2026, causing irreversible structural damage.
- Police confirm arson in the first incident, a criminal complaint against unknown persons is on file, and investigations continue.
- As mitigation, the city is installing bird nesting boxes on nearby trees and plans to plant a replacement later this year.