Man charged with arson in Oulu after apartment fire causes extensive damage

A 62-year-old man is facing charges of arson in Oulu District Court after allegedly setting his rental apartment ablaze last May. According to the indictment, the man doused a sofa in his apartment with flammable liquid, placed small gas canisters, paint, and fuel nearby, and intentionally ignited the fire before exiting through the balcony.

The blaze spread rapidly, causing significant damage to the roof structure of the apartment building. His unit, as well as a neighboring apartment, were completely destroyed, while other units in the building sustained various damages. The prosecutor is seeking a minimum of four years of unconditional imprisonment for the man.

While he has admitted to starting the fire, he denies that it constitutes severe arson. The man claims that his intention was not to cause widespread damage or put others at risk, stating that he was in a suicidal state and suffering from mental health issues at the time. His defense has called for an evaluation of his mental state during the trial.

Additionally, a group of residents from the apartment complex demands that the man be ordered to pay compensation for the damage he caused, and he has acknowledged some of these claims. The trial commenced today in Oulu District Court, and a ruling is expected at a later date.