Mosque Torched in Shocking Late-Night Arson Attack in Peacehaven
Inferno Destroys Mosque and Car
Flames ripped through a mosque and a nearby car in Peacehaven late on Saturday night (4 October). The blaze erupted around 9:45pm on Phyllis Avenue, with firefighters arriving to find a vehicle fully on fire and the mosque rapidly catching alight. Crews from Preston Circus and Roedean battled the fire using breathing apparatus and foam.
Miraculously, no one was hurt in the terrifying blaze. Early investigations suggest the fire was deliberately set. Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire & Rescue have launched a joint probe, hunting two suspects believed linked to the arson.
Police and Officials Condemn “Appalling” Hate Crime
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court slammed the attack as “appalling and reckless,” promising tough action and increased patrols at religious sites across Sussex. “Those responsible will be dealt with robustly and face justice,” he warned.
Police Commissioner Katy Bourne called it “the height of hateful criminality” and urged the public to report any information on the “cowardly and potentially fatal” incident. Local leaders echoed the outrage – Keith Glazier, East Sussex County Council Leader, branded the attack “horribly shocking” and pledged full cooperation with emergency services to safeguard community peace.
Zoe Nicholson, Leader of 1 District Council, expressed sorrow and vowed full support for the mosque’s Muslim congregation, urging witnesses to come forward.
Community Stunned but United Against Hate
The mosque blaze has rocked Peacehaven’s tight-knit community, striking at the heart of a vital spiritual centre for local Muslims. Residents and faith leaders have banded together, calling for calm and solidarity amid rising fear.
Sussex Police are sifting through CCTV footage and other evidence and urge anyone with information — even small details — to get in touch immediately.
How to Help Catch the Arsonists
- Contact Sussex Police on the non-emergency number with any tips
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers
- Share dashcam or CCTV footage from Phyllis Avenue on the night of 4 October
- Support local interfaith groups promoting unity and resilience
This arson is more than just a fire – it’s an attack on Peacehaven’s community spirit. Police vow to bring the culprits to justice and restore calm to the area.
