A significant incident unfolded early Thursday morning in Lincoln, Nebraska, involving theft and arson. Law enforcement officers responded to a call near the intersection of Second and O streets just before 6:15 a.m., where they discovered a vehicle ablaze in a parking lot. During their investigation, it was revealed that a 41-year-old individual named Jacob Leibel had committed several acts of misconduct prior to setting the car on fire.

The police uncovered that Leibel had first entered a nearby convenience store and took two beers without paying. Subsequently, he approached a parked vehicle where two individuals were sleeping inside. After striking the hood of the car, Leibel proceeded to set it on fire, causing extensive damage estimated at $15,000. The occupants managed to escape unharmed before the blaze began. Authorities apprehended Leibel at a neighboring establishment, finding him in possession of the stolen beverages, a torch lighter, and a machete.

Leibel now faces multiple charges including second-degree arson, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon, shoplifting, and disturbing the peace. This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and swift law enforcement action to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents of this nature. It also underscores the need for stronger measures to deter such criminal activities and protect innocent citizens from harm.