- Property damage amounts to around €70,000 (approx. $76,000)
- Clubhouse completely burned out, premises currently inaccessible
- Police investigating suspected arson
Fire destroys MC Hermsdorf clubhouse
During the night of November 15-16, 2025, the MC Hermsdorf clubhouse on Scharnweberstraße in Reinickendorf burned down completely. According to initial estimates, the damage amounted to at least €70,000 (approx. $76,000). At around 1:30 a.m., employees at the tunnel control center noticed smoke and alerted the fire department. Despite their rapid response, the building burned down completely. The police are investigating arson, but also consider a technical defect to be a possible cause.
Significance of the building for the association
The clubhouse had grown over decades and was continuously modernized. Built in the early 1980s, it had been fitted with new floors, walls, and a new roof over the past ten to fifteen years. Vice President Gerd Reinke describes the loss as a serious blow. Many memories are closely connected to the building, which was not only used for meetings but also served as a venue for youth work. Even private celebrations such as weddings took place there.
The premises are currently inaccessible. Members are temporarily using rooms at a neighboring shooting club or private accommodation.
Social commitment and an uncertain future
MC Hermsdorf has been involved in social projects in the district for many years. Since 2004, over €170,000 (around $185,000) has been donated to the Björn Schulz Foundation. The annual Sonnenhofroute charity ride raised over €30,000 (approx. $33,000) in 2025 alone. It is currently unclear how youth work and the upcoming Sonnenhofroute will continue.
District Mayor Emine Demirbüken Wegner said, “I am deeply saddened by the misfortune that has befallen such a dedicated and helpful association. MC Hermsdorf e.V. is an integral part of our district. Now it is their turn to be there for others – and we stand by them.” Sports Councilor Harald Muschner also emphasized: “MC Hermsdorf stands for community, enthusiasm, and charity. It pains me that an association that does such valuable work has been hit so hard.”
Call for donations for reconstruction
As there was no building insurance, the association must cover the damage itself. The amount needed for reconstruction is estimated at around €70,000 (approx. $76,000). MC Hermsdorf is therefore appealing for donations and emphasises that any support will help to continue its work in the district. If more money is collected than is needed, the surplus funds will be forwarded to the Sonnenhof children’s hospice run by the Björn Schulz Foundation.
Donation account:
- MC Hermsdorf e.V.
- IBAN: DE19 1002 0890 0610 1516 39
- HypoVereinsbank
- Purpose: Reconstruction 2025
- According to the club, a tax-deductible donation receipt can be issued.
