Police in Lengerich, Germany, arrested a 47-year-old Romanian national on Tuesday after he doused himself in a flammable liquid and took two town hall employees hostage, sparking a major police operation and evacuation of the building.
Incident at Lengerich Town Hall
The suspect entered the town hall and barricaded himself in an office with two city employees. According to Polizei Münster, he poured a suspected flammable liquid over himself and was carrying a lighter. The incident prompted a large police response, with multiple streets cordoned off around the building.
Police Response and Arrest
Special police units were deployed and successfully subdued the suspect. He sustained minor injuries from the flammable liquid and was taken to a hospital by paramedics. The two hostages were unharmed. Police confirmed the arrest occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23.
In a statement, Polizei Münster said: "A 47-year-old suspect was arrested on Tuesday (June 23, 12:45 p.m.) after he doused himself with a suspected flammable liquid and took two men hostage. The circumstances surrounding the incident are part of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Münster police."
Investigation Ongoing
The suspect, a Romanian national, is known to police. The motive remains under investigation. Firefighters and police provided support to those present, and road closures have since been lifted. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the hostage situation.
