Bishop Overbeck: Fires in Essen reveal shocking brutality

Bishop Franz-Josef Overbeck of Essen has spoken of "shocking brutality" in the wake of the fires in Essen, which left around 30 people injured. The bishop explained on Sunday that this affected everyone. On the same day, the police announced that the public prosecutor's office had applied for a warrant for the arrest of a 41-year-old man on charges including aggravated arson and attempted murder.

Overbeck emphasised that his thoughts were with the many injured, and that he was praying in particular for the seriously injured children. "I am grateful to the many emergency services for their quick and professional action," said the Ruhr bishop.

Residential buildings and shops targeted

On Saturday evening, there was a fire in two apartment blocks in Essen. A van also drove into two shops. Police officers arrested the suspect. A total of 30 people were injured, including eight seriously injured children, according to the police. Witnesses observed the offences. The fire brigade extinguished the fires and the residents were rescued.

Initial investigations revealed that the suspect's wife had separated from him. He had armed himself with stabbing weapons and fire accelerants and had travelled to the flats and shops associated with people who supported his wife. The suspect forcibly entered the apartment blocks and shops and deliberately set fires in order to kill the residents and destroy the houses by setting them on fire, the police said.

According to the police, the suspect has already been charged with threatening behaviour and damage to property. He is currently not commenting on the facts of the case. (KNA)