Israeli Police Arrest 66-Year-Old Suspect for Massive Arson in Hebron Car Lot

Israeli police and fire investigators arrested a 66-year-old Hebron resident on Thursday for allegedly setting a massive fire at a vehicle lot in the Kiryat Arba industrial area near Hebron. The blaze, which broke out late Saturday before the end of Shabbat, destroyed hundreds of vehicles and required about 16 hours of firefighting efforts by dozens of Israel Fire and Rescue teams. Exploding gas canisters at the scene complicated containment and caused significant damage.

Investigators from the Hebron police station and intelligence units in the Judea region conducted extensive inquiries, reviewing security footage to identify suspects. Fire investigators confirmed the fire was deliberately set after the suspect was seen on cameras near the lot holding a lighter and tissues. He reportedly ignited dry vegetation near the fence, which quickly spread to the vehicle lot.

The suspect, believed to be a former employee of a nearby grocery store, was identified through precise intelligence work and arrested this morning. Authorities suspect the arson was motivated by a criminal dispute following his dismissal from work. Police are also investigating his possible involvement in another fire incident earlier this month. The suspect is currently in police custody, and authorities plan to request an extension of his detention in court.

This fire is considered one of the most severe in the area in recent times, highlighting the challenges faced by emergency responders in controlling such large-scale arson attacks.