Police Release Surveillance Images in Search for Suspect in Köln Maus Statue Arson

In July 2025, the iconic Maus statue in Köln, a popular television figure, was deliberately set on fire in front of the 1-Live house, causing significant damage. The Köln police have since released surveillance footage showing a suspect at the scene on the night of July 25-26. The man, described as between 48 and 60 years old, approximately 1.70 to 1.90 meters tall and slim, was captured lingering for over an hour as he attempted to ignite the fire further before fleeing on a ladies' bicycle.

Initial suspicions targeted a group of young men but ultimately did not lead to any arrests. The suspect seen in the released photos wore a light brown sweater, blue pants, and blue sneakers with white soles. The community responded emotionally, with children decorating the charred Maus statue with colorful band-aids as a symbol of their distress. Installed in 2021 to commemorate the show’s 50th anniversary, the statue was taken for repairs post-attack and was returned to its place by the end of August.

Authorities continue to appeal to the public for information to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for this hate act against a beloved cultural landmark.