A man was taken into police custody on Monday in the Hérault department after being suspected of starting nine fires on Sunday in the area of Coulobres, near Béziers. According to a source close to the investigation, the suspect was spotted by local residents whilst driving a car, before being arrested by police officers from Servian as he arrived on a scooter in Abeilhan, a neighbouring town.
Nine wildfires in a wine-growing region
The nine fires, reported in a wine-growing area between Béziers and Pézenas, did not cause any major damage. The Béziers Public Prosecutor’s Office, contacted by Le Parisien, has not yet commented on this matter. This arrest comes against a backdrop of increased vigilance regarding fire risks, whilst several departments in the south of France are on alert.
One female firefighter slightly injured; 250 hectares burnt
Meanwhile, firefighters from the Hérault were called out on Sunday evening to a fire in Carlencas-et-Levas, where a young female firefighter sustained minor injuries. After receiving treatment at hospital, she was able to return home. According to the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS 34), the ‘fire front’ was brought under control late on Monday morning, but the rear of the blaze remained active and difficult to access.
The fire destroyed 250 hectares, burnt down a house and led to the evacuation of 25 people. The emergency services deployed significant resources to contain the flames and protect the homes under threat. Their rapid response prevented the fire from spreading further.