Police are investigating a series of linked arson attacks after three houses in a Leicestershire market town were deliberately set ablaze within a frantic 15-minute period this morning.
Coordinated Early Morning Attacks
The incidents, which authorities believe were deliberately caused by the same person, unfolded in quick succession in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. The first emergency call reporting a fire on Holywell Avenue came in at 7.05am. Just three minutes later, at 7.08am, a second blaze was reported on Prestop Drive. The third and final fire, on Cliffton Drive, was called in to firefighters at 7.19am.
A 50-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the coordinated attacks. Leicestershire Police confirmed the suspect remained in custody this afternoon as their investigation continues.
Casualties and Emergency Response
The fires resulted in three people being taken to hospital for treatment. Two teenagers and a woman all suffered from smoke inhalation, with one teenager also receiving treatment for burn injuries. Medical professionals have described all injuries as not life-threatening or life-changing.
Emergency services mounted a significant response to the incidents. Scene preservations are in place at all three locations as officers from Leicestershire Police work alongside the Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service to establish the full circumstances. The B6006 Smisby Road was also closed as part of the operational response.
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Inspector Jim Willoughby provided an update on the ongoing investigation. "Our investigation remains at an early stage as we continue to piece together the circumstances behind these three incidents," he stated. "From what we know so far, we believe these incidents to be linked and deliberately caused by the same person."
DI Willoughby has issued a direct appeal to the public for assistance, urging: "I would ask anyone who may have any information about any of these incidents, to please get in touch." The police are treating the fires as a linked, deliberate series of attacks that terrified the local community.
