Sellia: 35-year-old before magistrate for the fire

An Israeli 35-year-old was brought before the magistrate of Rethymno shortly after 11:00 on the morning of Tuesday, August 18, 2026, charged with arson regarding the fire in Sellia of Agios Vasileios Municipality. The fire had occurred on Friday, August 14 and, according to the case materials as reported by Cretan media, is alleged to have been caused by a barbecue at a villa where Israeli visitors were staying. The 35-year-old was arrested under citizen’s arrest procedures and given time by the prosecutor to prepare his defense. The time allotted is a right of the accused and is given so that he may study the case materials and retain counsel, without implying any assessment regarding the substance of the case.

He faces criminal prosecution for arson with possible negligence. This characterization does not mean intent to cause fire is attributed to the defendant, but rather — according to the prosecuting authority — that the defendant accepted the possibility that fire could result from his conduct. The 35-year-old is presumed innocent until an irrevocable judgment is issued. The position of his defense had not been publicized by Tuesday evening, nor had it become known whether restrictive measures or provisional detention were imposed. Arson with possible negligence differs both from negligent fire-setting and from arson with direct intent, with clearly different penalties.

Running parallel to the criminal proceedings is the civil aspect of the case. Injured parties of the area have already filed statements supporting the prosecution regarding damages to properties and businesses, and according to information are planning to seek compensation. The fire led to evacuations in two settlements and caused extensive damage, with the municipality subsequently announcing subsidies up to 6,000 euros for those affected by the fire. A declaration supporting the prosecution allows victims to participate in the proceedings and seek compensation without requiring a separate civil lawsuit as a first step.

The case highlights the issue of the use of open flame during the fire prevention season, especially at rental accommodations where guests are unaware of current restrictions. The law prohibits use of barbecues in outdoor spaces near forest areas when the hazard index is at high levels, while accommodation operators also bear responsibility for informing visitors about fire prevention season restrictions. The investigation will determine whether the case materials will lead to trial and with what final characterization. More about the area in the Agios Vasileios section. Southern Crete municipalities have repeatedly issued announcements to accommodation owners for informing visitors about fire prevention period restrictions.

Update 17:34: After his statement, the 35-year-old was released with restrictive terms and a 10,000 euro bail. This decision means that criminal proceedings continue without provisional detention, with the defendant remaining a suspect and presumed innocent until an irrevocable judgment is issued. It has not been made known what the specific restrictive terms imposed on him are nor when the investigation is expected to be completed.