Firefighters say van was torched on purpose

An arson investigation has been launched after a van fire during the early hours of this morning (Sunday, May 5). Multiple 999 calls were made reporting a van fire around 2.52am, and firefighters rushed to Trevarthian Road in St Austell.

One fire crew from St Austell Fire Station attended the incident. It was set alight near to a building.

The fire service said the cause of the fire is suspected to be arson and Devon and Cornwall Police has been informed. Anyone with information as to who started the fire should contact police.

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Cornwall Highways also attended the scene to remove any potential hazards to pedestrians on the main route into town. They were sent to clean up fuel spillage and broken glass left from the fire.

A statement from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: "Trevarthian Road in St Austell at 05/05/2024 02:52

"One fire appliance from St Austell Community Fire Station was mobilised following numerous 999 calls reporting a van on fire near to a building. Firefighters, some wearing breathing apparatus, used a hosereel jet to extinguish the fire.

"Arson is suspected as the cause of the fire and Devon & Cornwall Police have been informed. Cornwall Council highways department also attended to clear-up a fuel spillage and broken glass, that was a hazard to pedestrians on a main route into town.

"If anyone has information as to who may have started this fire, please contact Devon & Cornwall Police, quoting log number 142 of 05/05/2024."

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