Influencer Charged After Firework Incident in Berlin Apartment

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The Berlin public prosecutor's office has filed charges against a 23-year-old influencer, Atallah Younes, following an incident on New Year’s Eve when he shot a firework into an apartment building. The charges include attempted arson, attempted bodily harm, and property damage. According to authorities, Younes had posted a video on Instagram showing himself launching the firework at a multi-family residence. The firework struck the window of an apartment on the third floor, resulting in significant damage to the interior, including the bedroom furniture of the 53-year-old resident.

Fortunately, the occupant managed to prevent a larger fire from spreading by throwing out the burning remnants of the firework, and he and his family were not injured. The video quickly gained attention, amassing over six million views within 24 hours before being removed by Younes after approximately 36 hours.

Younes was arrested at Berlin Brandenburg Airport on January 4 and has since been in custody. The prosecutor’s office stated that he acted recklessly for personal gain, disregarding the safety and property of others. During his time in custody, a mobile phone was discovered with him, raising questions about how he obtained it and its intended use.

The case has now been handed over to the Berlin Regional Court, which will determine whether to proceed with the trial.

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