Two Teens Arrested After Straw Barn Blaze Rocks Westbury
Firefighters Battle Blaze at Coach Road Farm
Two local girls, aged just 12 and 14, have been arrested following a deliberate arson attack on a straw barn in Westbury last Thursday night (06/05).
The Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were called shortly after 6.30pm to Coach Road Farm, where the fire broke out. Authorities suspect the blaze was started intentionally.
Damage Runs into Thousands
PCSO Alice Moore of the Warminster Area Neighbourhood Policing Team warned of the dangers of starting fires. She said: “We can’t stress enough the dangers of deliberately starting a fire like this.”
Firefighters managed to contain the flames, but not before causing substantial damage to the barn, which stored straw feed essential for livestock. The repairs could cost the farm owner thousands of pounds.
Serious Warning: Don’t Play with Fire
“This was a senseless and reckless act and could have had much more dire consequences,” PCSO Moore said.
She added: “Hay bales are not toys to play on and are highly flammable. We urge everyone to take extreme care to avoid starting fires, especially with summer fast approaching.”
The two girls have been released under investigation as police continue their inquiries.
