Israel Wildfire Deaths Now Considered Murder
Arson suspected in numerous fires; spokesman tells ‘Post’ that Haifa no longer in danger, fire now focused on the Carmel hillsides and the Atlit region of Route 4; death toll rises to 42, Army Radio reports.
Attia added that arson is suspected in a number of separate fires, including Kiryat Bialik and Kiryat Tivon.
Earlier on Friday, police found a bike, a bag, and a wig inside near a fire center in Tzur Shalom, leading them to believe that the fire was caused by an arsonist or arsonists.
Police Spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told the Post that there are 3 fire centers - Tzur Shalom, the Atlit - Tirat Hacarmel area, and the Carmel hillsides. In one, Tzur Shalom, north of Haifa, “we located suspicious items pointing to arson. As for the other two major fires, it is too early and the incidents are to large in scale to know their causes at this stage.” The death toll in the fires rose to 42 on Friday, according to Army Radio.
Galillee police were spread out over the area searching for suspects. Members of the public who see suspicious activity should call 100 immediately.