Arson Attack Targets Bistritsa Mayor’s Home, Police Investigate

Bistritsa, Bulgaria – Authorities are investigating an arson attack on the car and front door of Samuil Popov, the mayor of Bistritsa village near Sofia, Bulgaria. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, February 16, 2026, with reports coming in between 1:30 a.m. And 1:40 a.m. Local time, according to the Interior Ministry (BTA).

Details of the Attack

Mayor Popov reported hearing an explosion shortly after 1:30 a.m. Upon investigation, he discovered his car was on fire and the front door of his house had been set ablaze (BTA). He observed two individuals on a motorcycle fleeing the scene, both wearing masks (BTA). Security cameras captured footage of the incident, showing the perpetrators approaching the property on a motorbike and using flammable liquid to ignite the car and door (Fakti.bg).

Family Safe, Investigation Underway

At the time of the attack, Mayor Popov, his wife, and their four-year-old daughter were asleep on the third floor of the house. His nephew and the nephew’s mother were residing on the ground floor. Fortunately, no injuries were reported (BNT News). A large-scale police operation is currently underway in the Bistritsa area, with authorities checking all incoming and outgoing vehicles (BNT News). A pre-trial investigation has been opened against unidentified perpetrators.

Previous Incident and Possible Motives

This is the second incident targeting Mayor Popov. In July 2025, masked individuals with bats entered his office (BTA), (Fakti.bg). Popov believes the previous incident may be connected to the arson attack. He had publicly questioned the allocation of funds from municipal rents in the village center last July but did not receive a response (BTA). He subsequently formally requested information from relevant institutions.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are working to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the attack. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they develop into available.