Exmouth fire: two arrested

Uncertainty whether last blaze connected to seven others

Two people have been arrested following a fire in Exmouth on the afternoon of Saturday 1 August, but police say they have an open mind about whether that incident is connected to a series of deliberate blazes in the town and Budleigh Salterton.

The latest blaze at a disused business at Pankhurst Close, a small industrial estate at Littleham on the eastern border of Exeter started in a vehicle and then spread to a nearby building.

One suspect has been released, and due to safeguarding concerns, the police are issuing no further details about the other suspect.

Seven recent arsons have predominantly occurred in the early hours of the morning, throughout July. Detectives are urging people, particularly business owners, to remain vigilant and to report concerns and suspicious activity. The bins of commercial premises have been targeted in the majority of cases with two fires starting in bins outside people’s homes in Budleigh Salterton.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Tim Hegarty of Exmouth CID, said: “We continue to work in partnership with the fire service and the local authority and our enquiries are progressing well."

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have any information which could assist their enquiries, including those with potentially relevant CCTV footage. 

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or via email at 101@dc.police.uk quoting log number 99 of 13 July.