Sofa Blaze Sparks House Fire in Bentley Avenue
A sofa was set on fire around 10.20pm on 11 April in Bentley Avenue. The flames quickly spread to a fence and trellis at a nearby home before igniting insulation inside the wall. A 46-year-old woman was inside the house at the time.
Multiple Fires Sparked Across Town
Shortly after the initial blaze, a large bin and bags of rubbish were set alight in Alvis Avenue, with further rubbish fires reported in Essex Avenue. Witnesses described the suspects as three teenage boys. Police investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
Police and Fire Chiefs Warn of Dangers
Detective Sergeant Dan Jeffries of Clacton CID said: “Setting fires in this way is extremely dangerous, because they can spread quickly and put people’s lives in danger.”
“It’s extremely fortunate no one was hurt. Several residents even tried tackling the fires before the firefighters arrived.”
“I urge anyone with information to contact us. Our community policing team is patrolling the area, working with Neighbourhood Watch, Tendring District Council and the Essex Fire & Rescue Service to prevent more incidents.”
“Parents should talk to their children about the risks. It’s not harmless fun – it puts lives at risk.”
Local fire station manager Stuart Hare added: “Please don’t start fires deliberately. They spread fast and risk lives.”
“Deliberate fires also tie up crews who might be needed for real emergencies. Keep flammable waste away from your property, store fuel safely, and report large rubbish build-ups to the council.”
How to Report Suspicious Activity
- Contact Essex Police online at 123.
