Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Arson arrest after blaze broke out in tower block
FIREFIGHTERS have confirmed the blaze in a tower block in Bristol on Thursday morning was started deliberately.
Police have now arrested a man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
The blaze broke out at around 6am at Eccleston House in Barton Hill. At its height, ten fire crews from across the area were tasked with putting it out, as all the residents of the tower block were evacuated to a nearby community centre and church.
All day, a major emergency services operation was in place, with council officers working with residents to support their welfare, care and accommodation needs.
Six people were injured in the fire but no one was killed.
A statement from Avon and Somerset police has confirmed the findings of an initial inquiry into the cause of the blaze by fire investigation teams from Avon Fire and Rescue Service, and it is being treated as arson.
A spokesperson from the police said: “A man has been arrested and is in police custody following a fire which led to people being evacuated from a block of flats in Bristol.
“Avon Fire & Rescue Service have confirmed the fire was started deliberately. This afternoon a man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
“Inquiries continue. Anyone with information which could help the police investigation is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5222252558,” he added.
The local community created rest centres at Tawfiq Masjid and Centre and St Patrick’s Catholic Church for displaced people.