Police arrest suspected arsonist in Schwäbisch Gmünd!

Police arrest suspected arsonist in Schwäbisch Gmünd!

A 34-year-old is suspected of having committed several arson attacks in Schwäbisch Gmünd (Ostalbkreis). These were reported on Saturday morning, June 14, 2025. The fire department and police were alerted around 10:00 a.m. after a mobile toilet on Oberbettringer Strasse burst into flames. A short time later, around 10:50 a.m., another incident followed when a trash can in the West parking lot of the University of Education was set on fire. Finally, a garbage container burned in the Mainstrasse/Rheinstrasse area in Oberbettringen shortly after 12:00 p.m.

Police arrested the suspect at 12:50 p.m. near the scene of the fire. During this intensive search, which also involved a helicopter, care was taken to prevent further arsons. Fortunately, the fire caused only minor property damage and there were no injuries. Officials have not yet provided any further information about the background to the crime.

Criminal record of the suspect

The 34-year-old is known to the police and has already appeared in the past. The fires he allegedly set raise questions about his behavior and possible motives. The police are currently continuing to investigate to clarify further details and to ensure that there are no additional risks to the public.

The quick arrest of the suspect after the multiple arsons shows the efficiency and commitment of the police on site. The use of police patrols and a helicopter enabled the arsonist to be caught in time, which may have prevented more serious incidents.

Saturday's events have caused concern in Schwäbisch Gmünd. Citizens are on alert because the suspect has had negative publicity in the past. The authority appeals to the public to be vigilant and to report suspicious observations immediately.

Further information about the incident can be found here and here.