HERO GARY SAVED TEEN FROM BLAZE
Police appeal to trace fire suspect
A neighbour has been hailed a hero after saving the life of a 14-year-old boy trapped in a deliberate flat fire.
Now detectives are hunting the arsonist after fire swept through the flat on Tuesday, June 13, just after midnight.
Neighbour Gary Gray sprung into action and rescued the teenager from the blaze.
The youngster and his 37-year-old mother were within their home in Glencairn Avenue, Craigneuk, when the woman left for a short time.
The door to their flat was then deliberately set on fire.
The 14- year- old was initially trapped but was saved thanks to the quick actions of Gary who forced the door and it allowed the youngster to escape.
The teenager did not require hospital treatment but detectives confirmed to the Wishaw Press that a male suspect dressed in dark clothing was seen running from the scene in the direction of Glasgow Road.
Neighbours were quick to praise the selfless actions of Gary as the fire took hold.
One man, who asked not to be named, said: “I saw a couple of fire engines and police outside the flat.
“If it hadn’t been for Gary then who knows what could have happened.
“That’s the type of guy Gary is. It’s a good job he was there or else it could have been a lot worse.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue spokesman said: “At 12.18am on Tuesday, June 13, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to reports of a fire within a block of flats on Glencairn Avenue, Craigneuk.
“A total of three appliances were mobilised, however the fire had been extinguished prior to their arrival.”
Police inquiries are currently ongoing in a bid to trace the culprit behind the blaze.
Anyone with information should contact detective constable Chris Norton at Wishaw CID on 101 or alternatively telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 55511, where calls are free and anonymity can be maintained.
If it hadn’t been for Gary then who knows what could have happened . . . Neighbour