£5,000 Reward to Nab Suspected Arsonists in Family Car Blaze
Nick from The Smithy family has revealed a £5,000 reward offered by his mother-in-law. The cash is for information leading to the arrest of two suspects involved in a suspected arson attack on the family’s vehicle.
Arson Attack Caught on CCTV
The horrific attack happened on the family driveway on Wednesday evening. Police and the London Fire Brigade are deep into the investigation after the blaze was caught on CCTV. The family publicly shared the footage on social media to help catch the culprits.
Many questioned why the car window was open. Nick later released full footage showing a clear timestamp of the attack at 22:55:11.
The Smithy family are currently staying at a secret hotel location for safety.
Massive Fire Destroys Property and Vehicles
Four fire engines and about 25 firefighters rushed to South Gypsy Road, Welling, following reports of a house fire.
- The fire destroyed exterior soffits, fascia, and guttering on a semi-detached house.
- Damage also hit part of the front and hallway inside.
- A car, five mobility scooters, and skip contents were destroyed.
- Adjacent property suffered partial damage to window fascia, soffit, and guttering.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Fire crews received 16 emergency calls about the blaze.
Fire Brigade and Police Hunt Cause
“We were called to a car alight that spread up the house exterior. Mobility scooters parked outside caught fire, producing lots of smoke and flames,” said Sub Officer Tim Sammons.
“Everyone was out before we arrived. Our crews worked hard to stop the fire spreading inside and to neighbouring homes. Our fire investigation dogs also searched for ignitable substances.”
The fire was reported at 22:56 and was under control by 00:30. Fire teams from Bexley, Plumstead, and Erith stations attended the scene.
No Arrests Yet as Police Appeal for Information
A man claiming responsibility for the attack shared photos of a burnt hand on social media. The family have dismissed these claims.
The Metropolitan Police said:
“Police were called by the London Fire Brigade at around 23:06 on Wednesday, 15 July, to a fire on South Gipsy Road, Welling. Officers and LFB attended, and the fire was extinguished by approximately 00:30. There have been no injuries. No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC, quoting CAD 8350/15July. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers_uk.org.
