A 14-year-old with a history of violent offenses allegedly firebombed an apartment in Berlin’s Gropiusstadt neighborhood on Wednesday, causing significant damage. According to police reports released Thursday, the incident occurred at approximately 7:35 a.m. at a six-story building on Feuchtwangerweg in the Neukölln district. A witness observed a teenager throwing an object onto a ground-floor balcony before fleeing the scene.
Mother and Son Injured in Fire
Shortly after the object was thrown, a powerful explosion erupted. The balcony was immediately engulfed in flames, which spread up the building’s facade to the sixth floor. Windows in the affected apartment and the apartment directly above it shattered as the fire spread. Both the 14-year-old and his 53-year-old mother, who were home at the time, suffered smoke inhalation and were transported to a hospital where they remained under treatment Thursday.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, preventing further spread of the fire to the rest of the building. Police were able to apprehend the suspect nearby based on witness descriptions.
According to police, the 14-year-old is a known offender with a history of repeated arson. A warrant has been issued for his arrest on charges of aggravated arson.
Attack Targeted Son
The damaged apartment has been sealed off, and the door is visibly scorched. Neighbors reported the explosion shook the entire building and some initially suspected a bomb was used. The apartment is home to a single mother, her 14-year-old son, and an 18-year-old daughter.
Reports indicate the attack was specifically targeted at the 14-year-old son. He had allegedly been subjected to repeated bullying and attacks by the now-arrested suspect. Neighbors stated the mother of the targeted boy had previously filed a police report regarding the alleged extortion attempts, which they believe motivated the attack.
The investigation is ongoing. The affected family initially sought refuge with relatives and has since been relocated to temporary housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the attack occur?
The attack occurred at approximately 7:35 a.m. on Wednesday morning, according to police reports.
What injuries were sustained?
Both the 14-year-old suspect’s mother and the intended target, a 14-year-old boy, suffered smoke inhalation and were hospitalized.
What is known about the suspect’s history?
Police state the 14-year-old suspect is a known offender with a history of multiple arson incidents.
How might this incident impact safety concerns and community relations in the Neukölln district?
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