Arsonist Sets Fire at Palace of Parliament in Bucharest

A security incident unfolded at Romania’s Palace of Parliament in Bucharest on September 17, 2024, when a man ignited a fire in the visitors’ access area. The suspect reportedly threw gasoline inside the building, specifically targeting the souvenir shop, an unprotected area, leading to a swift evacuation of approximately 300 people.

The fire broke out around 1:30 PM, prompting immediate action from firefighters who were able to extinguish the blaze quickly. According to reports, an employee in the souvenir shop was splashed with gasoline during the incident and suffered a panic attack but did not sustain any severe injuries.

Ongoing Investigation

The police are investigating how the suspect managed to enter the building with a flammable substance, as security measures are typically stringent. Initial findings suggest that the man set the fire following a spontaneous conflict and did not throw the gasoline at any individuals, focusing instead on igniting goods within the shop.

Authorities have released images of the suspect captured by surveillance cameras and are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying him. The man is wanted for charges related to arson and property damage, which could result in imprisonment ranging from two to seven years.

The Romanian Gendarmerie clarified that the incident occurred outside the building’s security zone, indicating a potential gap in security protocols. Investigators are conducting thorough inquiries, including witness interviews and reviewing surveillance footage to piece together the events leading up to the fire.

This incident has raised concerns regarding security at one of Romania’s most important governmental buildings. As investigations continue, officials are under pressure to ensure that such breaches do not occur in the future. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the suspect without approaching him directly.