Lorry Blazes Up Near Dartford Aldi in Suspicious Fire
A 39-year-old man has been arrested after a lorry erupted into flames near The Orchards Shopping Centre and Aldi in Dartford. The suspected arson attack sparked a fierce blaze that had fire crews scrambling to control the inferno.
Blaze Erupts on Suffolk Road
Emergency services rushed to Suffolk Road at around 8:30pm on Saturday, January 18, to find the lorry parked in a loading bay engulfed in flames. Witnesses captured dramatic footage of the fire, with bystander Naweed Hotak heard saying the flames were “getting worse” as firefighters battled the blaze.
Thankfully, no one was hurt, but police are treating the cause as suspicious.
Man Arrested as Police Probe Deepens
Police swooped on a 39-year-old man the same evening, arresting him on suspicion of arson. Although bailed for inquiries into the fire, he remains in custody on unrelated charges and appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on January 20.
“If you witnessed the incident or have any information that may assist our investigation, please contact us,” urged a police spokesperson.
How to Help the Investigation
- Contact police on 01474 366149, quoting reference 46/10114/25.
- Or call Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111.
Authorities have not revealed further details about the suspect or motive. The arson inquiry is ongoing.
