Shocking Arson Attack on Smithy Family Car Shared 3.8 Million Times
Footage of a terrifying arson attack on the Smithy family car has gone viral, shared over 3.8 million times. The CCTV shows two masked men approaching the vehicle in South London late Wednesday night. One is seen with a screwdriver, trying to force the back window open.
Two Men Target Family’s Car in Brutal Arson
Father Nick Smith told their 2.5 million followers that two people caused the blaze. He called the attack “terrifying” and warned it “could have killed us all.” Around 20 firefighters rushed to the scene to tackle the flames.
One of the suspects is seen dousing their 2017 Ford S-Max with flammable liquid before setting it alight. Flames poured from the already open front driver’s side window as the vehicle burned fiercely.
Social Media Questions Why Car Was Left Unlocked
Many viewers noted the family car’s front window was already open during the attack. There was no alarm triggered, only convenience lights when the door opened. Some suggest the assailants struggled to force entry, while others suspect the car was left unlocked.
“The car was already open. No tamper alarm during or afterwards,” a Facebook user wrote. “The lever tool was too short to unlock anything. A wedge might have been used to pour accelerant, but the car wasn’t locked.”
Ongoing Harassment Before the Attack
Nick revealed a three-month harassment campaign before the fire. Nearly 100 takeaway deliveries flooded their home in one day, and prostitutes were sent to their door. Damage to the car’s front window was visible before the fire started.
The fire destroyed the front door and damaged windows of their home. Smoke blackened the property’s front, melting windows, the CCTV camera, and guttering.
A claim that one attacker’s arm caught fire was debunked by CCTV showing the man wore fireproof gloves and a Nomex suit. The footage was edited with added sound effects by the Smithy family.
Police and Fire Investigations Underway
Specialist fire investigators from London Fire Brigade and officers from the Met Police are working together. The ring doorbell’s footage has not confirmed if it captured the attack.
A Met Police spokesman confirmed the investigation is ongoing. The fire was reported at 11:06pm on Wednesday, July 15, on South Gipsy Road.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
