A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after two fires, that are believed to be linked, broke out within half an hour of each other.
Firefighters and police were first called to a blaze at a flat in Bunters Avenue, Shoebury, just before 6am on Tuesday. Residents described the frightening moment when windows smashed due to the heat and thick smoke poured into the street, forcing nearby neighbours to evacuate others from their homes.
Around 30 minutes later, emergency services were called again – this time to Sailsbury Avenue near to West Road in Westcliff, where a car had burst into flames. The fire quickly spread to another parked car, prompting police to close West Road whilst the fire was dealt with.
One witness who lives nearby said: “It sounded like fireworks at first. Then we looked outside and saw the flames shooting up. It was terrifying.”
Both fires were extinguished by 7.13am, and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that both fires are being treated as deliberate. The fire service is now supporting Essex Police as part of an ongoing joint investigation.
A spokesperson for Essex Police said:
“We are investigating two fires in Westcliff and Shoebury. We were first called to a vehicle on fire in West Road, Westcliff, shortly before 6.30am. A short time later, we were alerted to a fire at a property in Bunters Avenue, Shoebury.
“Officers and fire service colleagues attended both reports. We are exploring the possibility the two incidents are linked. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.”
Police also confirmed that they arrested a 28-year-old man from Shoebury on Tuesday evening in connection with the investigation. He has been questioned in custody on suspicion of arson.
Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV, doorbell footage or dashcam footage that may help their inquiries to come forward.
You can report information via the Essex Police website or use their 24/7 Live Chat service. Visit www.essex.police.uk or call 101, quoting incident 169 of 22 April.