Shocking Arson in Crawley: Man Arrested After Home Blaze
A 60-year-old man from Crawley has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The fire erupted at a house on Creasys Drive, Broadfield, at around 3:33pm on Saturday 14th September. West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, backed by Sussex Police, rushed to the scene.
No Injuries But Devastating Loss of Beloved Dog
Thankfully, no people were hurt. But tragedy struck as the family’s dog, Peggy, was found dead at the scene. The woman who lived at the property is the suspect’s former partner. Her son, Connor, has launched a GoFundMe to help her rebuild after this cruel attack.
“My mum recently experienced a tragic event when her home was deliberately set on fire by someone she trusted—my biological father,” Connor wrote.
“The fire left her homeless, destroyed all her belongings, and took the life of her best friend and beloved dog, Peggy.”
Son Details Horrific Crime By Dangerous Ex
Connor described his father as a violent man with a criminal past. After his mother finally cut ties, the dad carried out this “unthinkable act of cruelty.”
“Mum was asleep when the fire started. Neighbours woke her just in time — any later and she may not have escaped. She tried to save Peggy but the fire service couldn’t save her,” Connor said.
“Mum lost everything — her home, possessions, and Peggy, who meant more than just a pet.”
Police Reassure Crawley Community
District Superintendent Imran Asghar said: “We understand the impact on the community but want to reassure people this was an isolated incident with no wider threat.”
Officers remain at the scene investigating. The suspect is still in custody and police are not seeking anyone else in connection with the fire.
However, authorities urge anyone with mobile, dashcam, or CCTV footage to come forward via police website or call 101 quoting serial 815 of 14/09.
Support the Victim’s Recovery
You can help Connor’s mum rebuild her life by donating to the GoFundMe fundraiser:
