Austrian firefighter suspected of starting fires he helped extinguish

Authorities in Austria's Burgenland state are investigating a 28-year-old firefighter from Güssing for allegedly starting three separate grass fires. The incidents occurred during an exceptionally dry summer, a period marked by numerous wildfires across eastern Austria.

Investigators suspect the firefighter intentionally ignited dry grass and brush on multiple occasions over recent weeks. Reports suggest he used a lighter and ignited paper, sometimes thrown from a car, to start the blazes. Notably, he was reportedly among the first responders at each fire scene, actively participating in their extinguishment.

“

I like fire interventions.

One fire started near a hunting lodge in mid-July, while two others occurred in August on a dried-out slope not far from the initial site. Investigators found it suspicious that the fires typically began in the late afternoon or early evening, and the suspect was consistently present among the firefighting crews.

During questioning, the suspect reportedly confessed to three instances of arson. He claimed he did not intend for the fires to become serious, stating he simply "likes fire interventions" and wanted a bit of "action." Despite the fires being small and quickly contained, resulting in no injuries or property damage, the firefighter now faces potential criminal consequences for his actions.

“

I just wanted a bit of 'action'.