Official statements from German law enforcement or judicial authorities

41-Year-Old Syrian Arrested in Essen After Arson, Van, and Machete Attacks Injure 31, Including Critically Hurt Children

Sep 29, 2024, 09:24 AM

A 41-year-old Syrian man has been arrested in Essen, Germany, after allegedly carrying out a series of arson attacks and assaults on Saturday evening that left around 31 people injured, including two children in critical condition. Emergency services responded to fires at multiple residential buildings in the Ruhr area. The suspect, reportedly wearing a keffiyeh and a Palestinian flag scarf, is accused of setting these fires that endangered the lives of residents. Following the arson attacks, the man allegedly drove a van into two shops, causing property damage, and chased passers-by while brandishing a machete. Local residents detained the suspect before police arrived. The motives for the attacks remain unclear at this time.