Man set on fire in his wheelchair in Utrecht discharged from burn center after 3 weeks
The man who was attacked and set ablaze in his electric wheelchair at Utrecht’s Smaragdplein in April is likely to be discharged from the burn center soon, RTV Utrecht reports. Local authorities say “doing well under the circumstances.”
The victim, 69-year-old Paul, is well known in the local community. He regularly stood near the entrance of the Plus supermarket on the square, where he asked shoppers for spare change.
The attack occurred on April 14, at the Smaragdplein shopping center. Paul, a double amputee who depends on an electric wheelchair, was deliberately set ablaze while at the plaza. He sustained serious burn injuries, including to his arms, back, and head.
Witnesses said a man allegedly put a lit advertising leaflet behind the victim’s back by the parking area of the shopping center. Unable to move away on his own, Paul could not escape before the fire spread.
People nearby rushed to help after the attack. They removed Paul from his wheelchair, placed him on the ground, and worked to put out the fire. He was first transported to a hospital by ambulance before being moved to a specialist burn treatment center.
Mayor Sharon Dijksma and police chief Iris Spekman welcomed the seven rescuers at city hall to thank them for their bravery. They each received a “Police Coin” in recognition of their actions.
Police arrested two suspects, aged 37 and 55, soon after the assault. The pair will remain in custody for at least three more months while the investigation continues. Authorities believe the suspects were acquainted with the victim and that a dispute may have played a role in the attack.
The attack prompted strong reactions across the Netherlands. Mayor Dijksma earlier condemned the incident as “a horrific act of violence,” while Justice and Security Minister David van Weel said he was shocked, adding that setting a person on fire “goes beyond all boundaries.”
In the aftermath of the attack, residents placed flowers at the location to show their support and compassion. A small sign was also put up in the square with the message, “Be kind to each other.”
