A dramatic scene unfolded at a Hampshire petrol station on Thursday morning after a man allegedly wielding an axe set a forecourt ablaze, leading to a major emergency response and his arrest.
Forecourt Inferno Sparks Panic
The incident began at approximately 11:15am on Thursday, 5th December 2025, at the BP Garage on Broom Way in Lee-on-the-Solent. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police were initially called to a public order incident after reports that a man was seen on the forecourt with an axe. The situation escalated rapidly when a fire broke out, which then spread to several vehicles and the petrol pumps themselves.
Footage from the scene showed cars and a petrol pump completely engulfed in flames, sending thick, black smoke billowing into the sky. The proximity of the blaze to the fuel supply created a highly dangerous situation for emergency services and local residents.
Resident Fears for Home and Safety
Local resident Nick Lawrence, who lives directly opposite the station, described his fear as the fire took hold. He told ITV News that his primary concerns were for both his personal safety and the safety of his property.
"The smoke was blowing towards the house," Lawrence said. "I thought if the whole garage goes up then there’s potential for something to happen to the house and us." His account underscores the very real danger posed to the surrounding residential area by the intense fire.
Arrest and Emergency Response
Officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police attended the scene alongside colleagues from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and the South Central Ambulance Service. The fire service confirmed the blaze had reached two cars and one pump.
A man was located at the scene with burn injuries. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The suspect was taken to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth for treatment to injuries related to burns and smoke inhalation.
The police force released a statement confirming the details: "A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He has been taken to Queen Alexandra hospital for treatment to burns and smoke inhalation related injuries." The investigation into the full circumstances of the incident is ongoing.
