A man has been apprehended after allegedly setting two fires in the city of Essen in western Germany, resulting in 30 individuals sustaining injuries, as well as driving a van into two shops, authorities reported on Sunday.
The incidents unfolded when emergency services received alerts regarding two fires in residential buildings that occurred rapidly after 5 p.m. on Saturday, according to the police. Among those injured were eight children who suffered severe injuries, with two of them in critical condition due to smoke inhalation.
Shortly after the fires erupted, a van collided with two shops in the city, causing property damage but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Subsequently, the suspect purportedly menaced individuals with weapons, before several men intervened, using shovels and poles to restrain him until law enforcement arrived on the scene.
Police disclosed that the suspect, a 41-year-old resident of Essen possessing Syrian citizenship, was in custody while investigations into a potential motive were ongoing.
Upon the fire service’s arrival at the site of the initial blaze, thick smoke was observed emanating from the building’s entrance, with individuals seeking assistance from windows. Good Samaritan neighbours had propped up ladders to aid in the rescue efforts, although they were not sufficiently long to reach the upper floors.
The situation continues to be monitored as authorities work to ascertain the full details surrounding the incidents and the motivations behind the suspect’s actions. Stay connected for further updates as the investigation unfolds.