Following a circumstantial evidence trial regarding the fire at a refugee shelter in Groß Strömkendorf near Wismar, the accused firefighter has been acquitted. The former hotel was engulfed in flames in October 2022, with experts concluding that the fire was deliberately set. However, the man could not be proven guilty of the crime nor other arson cases in the region, as stated by the presiding judge at the Schwerin Regional Court on Friday.
The prosecution had demanded a prison sentence of seven years and six months for multiple counts of arson and aggravated arson in two cases. The defense called for acquittal, arguing that the evidence was insufficient from their perspective.
Fireman accused of arson spree – now acquitted
During the trial, the defendant remained silent on the accusation of being responsible for a series of arsons which culminated in the fire at Groß Strömkendorf. Other locations that were set on fire included small woodland areas, a carport, and a temporarily inhabited house.
The fire on October 19, 2022, destroyed significant parts of the former hotel “Schäfereck,” where 14 war refugees from Ukraine were housed at the time of the incident. The residents were able to evacuate the building in time. There were no injuries. The property damage was estimated at approximately 7.5 million euros. The building was completely demolished.
The accused was arrested shortly after the fire. His trial commenced on May 10, 2023. In July, the court released the man due to lack of compelling evidence.
