"Someone may die unless the fires stop" (From Redditch Advertiser)

"Someone may die unless the fires stop"

1:50pm Friday 28th September 2012 in News

POLICE investigating a series of arsons in Redditch have warned someone may die unless the fires stop.

The latest in a number of bin fires happened in Sandhurst Close, Church Hill, between 1am and 1.25am on Wednesday, September 26.

Two wheelie bins were set on fire next to the house.

The blaze was spotted by a neighbour who called the fire service.

Redditch district inspector Ian Joseph said: "In the early hours of the morning it is very fortunate the blaze was seen by a neighbour, who raised the alarm.

"Nevertheless, it took 30 minutes to wake the occupant, by which time damage had occurred to the gas main and gas was escaping, which has the obvious potential for an explosion.

"Gas equipment was also damaged in two bin fires in Dolben Lane, Winyates, on Sunday evening.

"These fires are putting residents at considerable risk, and if they continue it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or even killed."

There were two other arsons in Redditch on Wednesday.

In Sedgley Close a fire was started in a communal area of block of flats and in Heronfield Close a blue BMW car had to be written off after it was set on fire.

Witnesses or anyone with information about any of the fires are being urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.