During the festive season, Porto Torres has been rocked by incidents of arson as two cars were set ablaze within just days of each other, raising fears among residents. The attacks have left the community shaken, with memories of the flames still haunting those who witnessed the destruction.
The first incident occurred on the night of Christmas Eve, between December 23 and December 24, when flames consumed the vehicle of a local bricklayer. It was reported as he returned home, shocked to find his recently purchased Mercedes CLC reduced to ashes. Not only did the fire destroy his car, but it also caused damage to the building nearby, with shattered glass and scorched shutters highlighting the potential dangers the blaze created.
Adding to the concern, just days later on December 28, another arson incident unfolded when, around 11 p.m., A Fiat Qubo parked near the home of its owner, another 68-year-old pensioner, was set on fire. The vehicle ignited after disturbing noises were heard by neighbors, who were startled awake by the sound of explosions. Despite everyone's efforts to douse the flames, the damage was significant.
Witnesses from the neighborhood described the scene as chaotic. "I was scared, so scared it made me feel sick," said the owner of the burnt Fiat. He and others recalled hearing screams from children, leading them to believe the fire was the result of some sort of dangerous prank rather than mere vandalism.
The response from local authorities has been swift. Firefighters arrived on the scene quickly, and their initial investigations revealed strange wrappings near one of the wheels, which might have been lit intentionally. Despite their prompt attention, the damage was already done, and residents felt the emotional impact of the crime deeply.
"Our city has hit rock bottom," commented another distraught citizen following the chaos of the second fire, reflecting the community's growing fear and frustration. It’s been years, residents lamented, since they began feeling vulnerable to such acts. "We have been at the mercy of this type of prank for years, real acts of vandalism committed by unknown people of any age," one resident noted, calling for greater attention from law enforcement to restore safety to their streets.
Local authorities, including the carabinieri, have launched investigations to determine the cause of these fires and identify those responsible. They are examining the possibility of syndicates targeting holiday gatherings or simply disillusioned youths seeking dangerous thrills. The emotional fallout of these attacks weighs heavily on the residents of Porto Torres, who just want to enjoy their holidays without fear.
With the holiday spirit overshadowed by worry, many locals are calling for increased patrols and security measures. They hope tangible action will be taken to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring, offering some peace of mind to families during this traditionally joyous time.
