Zlín prosecutor seeks 21-22 years for man accused of bar arson

Prosecutors in Zlín are seeking a sentence of 21 to 22 years in prison for Daniel Kratochvíl, who is accused of intentionally setting fire to a bar near the city's bus station in January 2024.

During the trial, witnesses provided conflicting accounts. One witness, a friend of the defendant, testified that he saw Kratochvíl walking slowly out of the building just before smoke billowed from the doors. Another witness claimed to have seen a young man throw a dark sports bag behind the bar with the words ‘it is a gift’ before an explosion occurred.

Kratochvíl, 30, has denied involvement, claiming he cannot remember the event due to the influence of drugs and medication. The prosecution alleges he purchased nearly nine liters of gasoline prior to the incident and ignited a canister inside the bar. The fire caused significant damage and resulted in injuries to a bartender, who suffered burns to the head, neck, and hands.

Kratochvíl faces charges of attempted murder, attempted grievous bodily harm, and property damage. He has a prior criminal record involving theft, robbery, and assault.