Attackers throw flares into church during service in Haar

Unknown attackers threw fireworks into several buildings in Haar near Munich, including a church where first graders were being blessed during a service, BR reported. Police are investigating five counts of attempted aggravated arson.

The incidents took place on Monday around Ziersee lake. No major damage was reported.

The series began at about 4.30pm, police said on Tuesday, when a woman noticed a burning Bengal flare in her ground-floor apartment. Her husband extinguished it. During the following hour, more flares were set alight on a balcony and then thrown through an open balcony door into an apartment.

The attackers also threw a flare into a shop near Ziersee. Another burning flare landed in the entrance area of St Boniface Church while first graders were being blessed. People attending the service noticed the smoke and threw the flare into the lake beside the church.

Police estimate the attacks caused damage in the four-figure range. Investigators believe several people were involved and have a description of one suspect. He is said to be about 14 years old, 1.60 metres tall, with short black hair and wearing dark clothing. Police are asking for information.