A Bromley homeowner, John Blaine retired chartered surveyor, awoke to devastating news this morning after his £1.8 million property on Plaistow Lane was severely damaged in a suspected arson attack. The incident, which occurred around 10 p.m. on Saturday night (October 26), is the latest in a series of disturbing events that have plagued Blaine’s residence over recent months, including repeated break-ins and acts of vandalism.
Blaine, who has owned and meticulously renovated the property over three decades, recounted the moment he received the news. The police contacted me just before 8 a.m. and told me my house had been set on fire around 10 o’clock last night,” he said. Expressing his distress, he added, “It doesn’t look good. After all the years and effort I’ve put into it, it’s heartbreaking.”
https:///youtu.be/QkJNAIbLC70
The fire caused extensive damage to the home, and London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police have since launched an investigation to determine the cause. Officers are considering possible links between this incident and previous criminal activity targeting the property, including recent cases of vandalism where mirrors and windows were smashed, and glass was left scattered across the home. Police had previously arrested and charged a suspect in connection with these earlier incidents, though the current status of those proceedings remains unclear.
Adding to the urgency of the investigation, a separate fire was reported at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Orchard Road, also in Bromley. Both scenes were attended by the London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police, and authorities have not ruled out a connection between the two fires. No injuries have been reported in either incident, but the extent of the damage on Plaistow Lane has left Blaine facing an uncertain future regarding repairs.
https:///youtu.be/PEhhGkCzhME
Police are actively investigating and have asked anyone with information about either incident to come forward. Those who may have witnessed suspicious activity or have information about the Plaistow Lane fire are urged to call 101 or contact @MetCC on X, quoting reference 1620/27OCT. For the Orchard Road fire, reference 7706/27OCT should be used. Anonymous tips can also be provided to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
