Suspect Sets Police Car and Civilian Vehicle Ablaze in Carinthia

Authorities in Carinthia are investigating two incidents of suspected arson that occurred within a short span of time on Friday evening in the town of Spittal an der Drau. The first incident was reported shortly before 8:00 p.m., when a witness alerted the police that a patrol car parked outside the local police station was on fire.

According to police sources, officers responded promptly to the alert. One officer was able to extinguish the fire, which had ignited the rear tire of the police vehicle, before it could spread further. The swift intervention prevented significant damage and ensured that no injuries were reported in this incident.

Less than thirty minutes after the initial report, emergency services received another call regarding a separate fire. This time, a privately owned car parked in a public parking lot in the same locality was found in flames. Firefighters and police responded rapidly, managing to extinguish the blaze before it could cause serious harm to nearby vehicles or infrastructure.

Law enforcement immediately launched a search for the suspected perpetrator. Investigators are currently working to determine whether the two arson attacks are linked and if they were carried out by the same individual. Forensic teams have examined both locations, collecting evidence that may assist in identifying the suspect responsible for these acts.

Both vehicles sustained damage, though the prompt actions of the police and fire services limited the extent of destruction. No injuries have been reported in connection with either fire. The motive behind these incidents remains unknown at this stage, and authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could help with the investigation.

Local residents have expressed concern following these incidents, but police have assured the community that enhanced patrols and security measures are in place while the investigations continue. Officers are also reviewing security camera footage from the areas surrounding both crime scenes, hoping to obtain images or leads that could expedite the identification and apprehension of the suspect.

The police have encouraged anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity of the police station or the public parking lot during the relevant timeframes to come forward. All tips will be treated confidentially as authorities work to resolve the case and prevent further incidents.

As investigations proceed, the community remains vigilant, and officials reaffirm their commitment to maintaining public safety in Spittal an der Drau and the wider Carinthia region.