A 32-year-old man is in custody following an investigation into arson at the Oldenburg Christmas Market last week. The suspect was apprehended over the weekend during a police check related to a separate shoplifting incident in Leer.
Suspect Apprehended in Connection with Christmas Market Fire
Police in Oldenburg announced on Monday that surveillance camera footage led investigators to identify the 32-year-old as a person of interest in the Christmas market fire. He was arrested on-site due to the suspicion of arson and has been held in investigative custody since Saturday.
The incident, which occurred in the night leading up to Monday, December 15th, began with three burning trash cans. According to police reports, the fire spread to two sales booths and caused heat damage to a nearby building. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
“We can be glad that the fire was discovered quickly,” a police spokesperson told NDR Niedersachsen.
A one-minute video documenting the fire damage at the Christmas market is available for viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Oldenburg Christmas Market?
Three trash cans were set on fire, and the flames spread to two sales booths, with a building also sustaining heat damage.
When did the fire occur?
The fire occurred in the night leading up to Monday, December 15th.
Is anyone injured?
No, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge and what charges the suspect may ultimately face.
Worth a look