Arson suspected following fire in High Wycombe

Police are appealing for information following an incident of arson with intent to endanger life in High Wycombe.

At about 10.45pm on Saturday 12th May 2018 a member of the public noticed a fire at a house in Shrimpton Road, High Wycombe and the emergency services were contacted.

The fire involved the front entrance and downstairs toilet of the house.

At 10.48pm two appliances and crews were despatched from High Wycombe fire station, one from Amersham fire station, one from Maidenhead fire station and one from Slough fire station. The British Red Cross Fire and Emergency Support Service vehicle based at Marlow Fire Station also attended as well as two officers attended.

A hose reel, two sets of breathing apparatus and a Positive Pressure Ventilation fan were used during the operation to extinguish the fire.

Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Zoe Hardy of Thames Valley Police, said: ‘We believe an accelerant was used to ignite a fire which has caused damage to the address. Thankfully no-one was injured as a result of this incident.

This offence is being investigated as arson with intent to endanger life and I would urge anyone with any information to contact police immediately. The easiest way to do this is by calling 101 or visiting a police station.

I would like to thank the member of the public who called emergency services to the scene, as well as residents for their patience while we are in the area to carrying out enquiries.

I would also like to thank Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, South Central Ambulance Service and Red Cross for their assistance.‘

Thames Valley Police are appealing for anyone who may have any information relating to this case to please call 101 quoting reference ‘1498 (12/5)’ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.