Wrong Car, Right Glove: 50-Year-Old Man Charged with Arson After Mistaken Target

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

A 50-year-old man is facing charges of arson after mistakenly setting fire to the wrong car, a case that unfolded with the help of security footage and a discarded glove. The defendant, who was reportedly under the influence of cannabis, had intended to target a specific vehicle but ended up igniting a different one.

The incident occurred on March 30th, 2024, when the victim discovered his car engulfed in flames while leaving his home. He quickly extinguished the fire and contacted the police.

Security footage from the victim's house revealed a man driving a car with specific characteristics and wearing a glove. The glove was later found at the crime scene and matched the one worn by the suspect in the video.

A witness, who had been approached by the suspect earlier that day, provided further information. The witness described the suspect's car and confirmed that he had inquired about the whereabouts of a specific individual before leaving.

During the investigation, the defendant confessed to the crime and was identified by the witness. A forensic report confirmed that the fire was intentionally set, while a psychiatric evaluation concluded that the defendant was responsible for his actions. Tests also revealed the presence of cannabis in his system.

The defendant's lawyer, Reem Al Mahari, pleaded for his client's acquittal, arguing that he was in an unstable state due to his history of drug use and was undergoing treatment at a rehabilitation center. She highlighted his confession and lack of prior criminal record, emphasising his remorse and the potential harm of continued imprisonment to both the defendant and his family.