The police have identified a 36-year-old former park ranger as the main suspect behind the largest fire in Czech history. The individual was taken into custody in connection with several smaller fires that occurred during this year’s Easter period. If convicted, the suspect could face a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

The article confirms that the suspect in question is Jiří L., a former voluntary park ranger at České Švýcarsko National Park. The initial report was made by TN.cz and later confirmed by Dan Anděl, the Deputy Regional Prosecutor in Ústí nad Labem, to Seznam Zprávy.

Aside from the major fire, the police believe that the individual may be responsible for starting other fires as well. Records from the park’s website indicate that the suspect worked as a guide, leading tourists to the popular Pravčická brána rock formation in 2013.

According to Seznam Zprávy, the suspect briefly worked as a substitute employee at the park in 2013 and later volunteered there until 2018 when his health prevented further involvement.

The investigation into the suspect began this year after the police linked him to several smaller fires during the Easter period. Jan Kolář, the mayor of Krásná Lípa, where the suspect resides, confirmed that the police apprehended him for three initial arson attacks on the Vlčí hora lookout tower and two nearby cabins.

Contrary to earlier reports suggesting a voluntary confession, CNN Prima News reported in late April that the suspect was actually apprehended by the police. Kamil Marek, a regional police spokesperson, clarified that the case was solved thanks to the efforts of regional investigators and the police in Rumburk. It was not a situation where the suspect simply confessed to the crimes.

An anonymous source familiar with the investigation revealed that the suspect had been in a treatment facility prior to being detained. During the investigation, the police regularly visited the facility while searching for the culprit behind the smaller fires. Eventually, they gained the suspect’s trust, leading to his admission of responsibility for starting the main fire.

The fire near Hřensko ignited on the night of July 24 last year and quickly spread, engulfing over 1,000 hectares of vegetation. Firefighting efforts proved to be challenging, involving more than 6,000 firefighters and even international aerial support. The estimated damage amounted to 270 million Czech korun.

The suspect is currently facing charges of public endangerment and damaging property owned by others. If found guilty by the court, he could be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison for his alleged involvement in starting the devastating fire.

Article by Prague Forum