Police investigate Weston car fires

Fourteen vehicles were damaged in Weston Super Mare overnight

Police and the Fire Service were called to Wooler Road at around 4am
Author: James DiamondPublished 18th May 2022

The Avon Fire and Rescue Service says anyone responsible for an arson attack will be brought to justice, after eight cars were set on fire in Weston Super Mare overnight.

Firefighters and the police were called to the Wooler Road area at around 4am and 14 vehicles ended up damaged.

It's thought the attack was carried out indiscriminately and there have been no reports of any injuries.

It comes after dozens of vehicles were set alight in South Gloucestershire last month, for which a man has since been charged by police.

"It is so disappointing to see so many fires started deliberately in our communities, fire presents a significant risk, not only to those starting the fires and those local residents in the community but to our crews that are sent in to tackle them," a spokesperson for the Fire Service said.

"Not only is starting a fire deliberately a crime that can carry a significant sentence, but our crews would potentially be unable to get to another emergency.

"The Service’s resources need to be available to respond to any fires in the home and support with humanitarian aid for vulnerable people in our communities."

Avon and Somerset Police say they are investigating.

"Officers were called by a member of the public at just after 4am today (Wednesday 18 May) to attend the Wooler Road area following a report of vehicles on fire," they say in a statement.

"At this time we’re aware of around 14 vehicles damaged by fire with incidents also reported in Gerard Road, Arundell Road, Upper Church Road, Cecil Road and Kewstoke Road."

Officers have been searching the area with a drone and say they will be going house to house as part of their inquiries, but so far no one has been arrested.

If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area last night, or have any information which could help the police, you're asked to call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222117183.

The Fire Service say if you see a fire you should call them immediately on 999.

"For anyone thinking about starting a deliberate fire, we warn them against it," the Fire Service says.

"We work with the police on a regular basis and we will help bring you to justice."

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