Teen Arson Spree Sparks House Blaze in Clacton
A sofa was set on fire on Bentley Avenue around 10.20pm on April 11. The blaze quickly spread to a nearby fence and trellis before jumping to a house, igniting wall insulation. Inside was a 46-year-old woman, who luckily escaped harm.
Bin Fires Break Out Nearby
Not long after, a large bin and rubbish bags were deliberately torched in Alvis Avenue. Another rubbish fire followed in Essex Avenue. Police say three teenage boys are suspects as investigations continue.
Police and Fire Chiefs Issue Stark Warnings
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 that no-one was hurt during these incidents. Several residents bravely tried to tackle fires before firefighters arrived.”
“We’re grateful to the public for their help and continue our enquiries. Anyone with information, please come forward.”
“We’re working closely with Neighbourhood Watch, Tendring District Council and Essex Fire Service to prevent more fires. Parents should warn their children: setting fires isn’t harmless fun — it’s risky and illegal.”
Fire Station Manager Stuart Hare added: “Deliberate fires not only create immediate danger, but also divert our crews from other emergencies. Please don’t start fires.”
“Keep flammable waste away from your home, store fuel safely in fire-proof containers, and report rubbish buildups to your council.”
How to Report Info and Stay Safe
- Contact Essex Police online at 123.
Police urge the community to stay vigilant and work together to stamp out dangerous arson in the area.
