Previous Vandalism
The suspect was previously involved in an investigation into vandalism and the dissemination of offensive and discriminatory texts on street furniture in the same neighborhood in 2024. At that time, a stop conversation was held with him. The vandalism ceased for a while until new incidents occurred in March 2025.
Recent Incidents
In the night of March 7 to 8, 2025, between 00:15 and 00:22, multiple wooden fences and garden gates were set on fire at four locations in a neighborhood in St. Willebrord. Stickers with offensive and discriminatory texts were also placed on, among other things, lamp posts. The fires caused a rapid spread of flames, posing a danger to nearby properties, including homes where people were sleeping. Fortunately, no one was injured, but it did raise questions among the neighborhood residents.
Arrest
The recent incidents led to a new investigation. After multiple reports and the collection of surveillance footage, the police tracked down the suspect. He is a 38-year-old man from St. Willebrord. The suspect confessed during the interrogation to being responsible for these acts.
Police Force
Source published: 3 April 25
Suspect Confesses to Arson of Fences in St. Willebrord
Gebied: St. Willebrord
The police arrested a suspect on Wednesday, April 2, at 16:25, on suspicion of arson. The arrest follows a series of incidents in the neighborhood, where several wooden fences and garden gates were set on fire in March 2025.