Overview

• Unknown assailants set the fiberglass figure ablaze overnight on July 26 and a WDR staffer alerted firefighters via surveillance footage
• Investigators recovered fragments of Styrofoam or a cut sponge at the scene, indicating use of accelerants beyond a simple lighter
• Local residents have affixed colorful band-aids to the charred sculpture as a symbolic gesture of support
• Westdeutscher Rundfunk will dismantle the damaged statue and send it for professional repairs to restore its original appearance
• Police noted the presence of youths near the statue before the fire but have not confirmed any suspects as the probe continues