Some of the vehicles torched provide transport for vulnerable adults and children
Police are on the hunt for two “shameful” arsonists who torched 23 vehicles in one night – including 15 minibuses owned by a charity.
The series of arson attacks were carried out in South Gloucestershire between 1am and 4.40am on Sunday, April 3 – with a total of 23 vehicles destroyed in the areas of Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Patchway and Stoke Gifford.
Avon and Somerset police said 15 of the vehicles were minibuses owned by a charity that provide transport services for vulnerable adults and children. Officers have now launched a large-scale investigation to find the culprits.
CCTV footage published by the force shows two male suspects who were in the area at the time of the fires.
Detective Inspector Will Thorpe explained “We’re carrying out a thorough investigation into this series which has not only destroyed tens of thousands of pounds worth of vehicles but has left a charity unable to provide vital support to those in the local community.
“Officers have carried out a number of house to house enquiries already and have also gathered CCTV from the area which appears to be of significance.”
DI Thorpe said that, while police remain in the early stage of their inquiry, an initial review of footage suggests two people were responsible for the attacks.
He added that a number of people have already contacted police with information following a public appeal and that officers are “really grateful” for the support.
We need to hear from you with info, dashcam or other footage after vehicles were set on fire across Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Stoke Gifford & Filton overnight.
Thankfully there are no reports of injuries.
Please call 101 ref log 124 of 3 April.
More: https://t.co/NNokxrMmOS pic.twitter.com/qHwBvRxwzW— Avon and Somerset Police (@ASPolice) April 3, 2022
“But we’re still keen to hear from local residents,” he insisted, “particularly those in the Bradley Stoke and Stoke Gifford areas – who have CCTV, door camera or dash cam footage which captured two people together between 1am and 4.40am.”
Residents with cameras are being urged to review their footage and contact police on 101 if they see anything suspicious.
“It could prove to be crucial to our investigation,” DI Thorpe said.
Specialist crime scene investigators are working closely with the fire service to examine the vehicles which were targeted, while neighbourhood officers remain in the area carrying out reassurance patrols.
“Should anyone have any concerns about this series I’d encourage them to speak to an officer.”
Anyone with any information is urged to call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222078490.
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