Suspect Arrested After Setting Police Vehicle and Private Car on Fire in Carinthia

Authorities in Carinthia responded to two separate incidents of arson on Friday evening in the town of Spittal an der Drau, where a police patrol car and a privately-owned vehicle were deliberately set ablaze. The rapid intervention of law enforcement and fire services ensured that both fires were quickly brought under control, minimizing potential damage and public risk.

According to police reports, the first incident took place just before 8:00 p.m. when a passerby observed flames coming from a patrol car parked in front of the Spittal an der Drau police station. The alert was raised promptly, and an officer managed to extinguish the fire, which had started near the rear tire of the vehicle. While no injuries were reported, the swift action likely prevented more significant damage to the police vehicle and surrounding property.

Shortly after the first incident, authorities were notified of a second fire involving a private car parked in a public area nearby. Firefighters responded to the scene and were able to suppress the flames before they could spread. In both cases, the prompt response from emergency personnel played a crucial role in containing the situation and safeguarding public safety.

Law enforcement quickly initiated a search for the suspect. Witness statements from two individuals at the scene provided a description of a man seen near both vehicles around the time the fires were set. Additional evidence and witness accounts further implicated a 45-year-old local resident as the primary suspect involved in both arson attacks.

Police located the suspect at his residence within a short time of the incidents. During a search of the home, officers reportedly discovered clothing matching the description provided by witnesses, as well as materials believed to have been used as accelerants in the fires. The man was subsequently detained and transferred to the police detention center in Villach for further questioning.

Despite the arrest, the suspect reportedly did not admit responsibility for the crimes during initial police interviews. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and assess the extent of the damage caused by the fires. Authorities have yet to determine a motive for the attacks, and further inquiries are ongoing to establish whether there may be additional factors or individuals involved.

The rapid response by local police and fire brigades was instrumental in preventing injuries and limiting property damage. The case has prompted heightened vigilance in the area, with law enforcement urging residents to report any suspicious activities or persons to assist ongoing investigations.

Arson is considered a serious offense under Austrian law, particularly when it endangers public safety or targets emergency service vehicles. The arrested individual faces multiple charges, and the legal process will proceed as investigations continue. Updates regarding the case are expected as authorities review evidence and determine the next steps in the judicial proceedings.