Israeli Tourist Arrested in Crete for Negligent Barbecue Causing Major Wildfire

A 35-year-old Israeli tourist was arrested on Crete on suspicion of negligent arson after igniting a barbecue despite a high fire risk warning. The fire broke out on Friday around 7 p.m. near the village of Selia in the Rethymno region, during a day when a level four fire danger alert was in effect. Firefighters battled the blaze for four hours before containing it.

The suspect was reportedly using a barbecue at the villa where he was staying with two other Israelis. According to local Greek media, the fire was caused by careless use of the grill amid severe weather conditions and strong winds. The villa owner had warned the group not to use the barbecue due to the dangerous conditions, but his advice was ignored.

The villa owner expressed deep regret and publicly apologized to local residents affected by the fire, stating he would support those who suffered damages. He emphasized he does not wish to interfere with the ongoing police investigation but wanted to convey his sorrow over the incident's consequences. The Israeli tourist is expected to appear before local police investigators soon.