Unsolved cases

Where are the arsonists hiding?

A joinery in Taufkirchen was completely destroyed.(Bild: FF Taufkirchen an der Trattnach)

Investigators in Linz are currently feverishly searching for an arsonist who allegedly set fire to two garbage islands. However, a look at the archives shows that the search for an arsonist can often be very tedious and lengthy. 

Wavy white-grey hair, full beard, around 55 years old: the first description of the perpetrator was already quite precise. The as yet unknown man is said to have set fire to two garbage islands in Linz-Auwiesen, causing fear in the associated residential complex. A garbage container had already burned on February 18 in the same street. Investigators are assuming a connection and the search for the perpetrator is in full swing.

Up to ten years in prison possible
If he is caught and convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison - that is the maximum sentence for arson. Two cases already caused a stir last year: In June, a witness filmed a carpentry workshop in Taufkirchen an der Trattnach being set on fire from a great distance with his cell phone, completely destroying it. "We still haven't found a perpetrator," says the responsible public prosecutor's office in Wels months later.

And the arson attack on refugee accommodation under construction in Linz in March 2023 has also remained unsolved since then. The Linz public prosecutor's office has put the investigation on hold until any new information is received.