'Reckless' arson attack on Liverpool business

A fire that broke out in a Vauxhall accountants' office was deliberate, detectives say. Flames took hold in a ground floor room of Islam & Co chartered accountants on the corner of Phillips Street and Vauxhall Road at around 10.30pm on Saturday, November 2.

Two fire crews from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene and extinguished the fire, which was located in a rear office, after isolating the electrics. The scene was assessed by fire service authorities, who determined the fire had been started deliberately.

Merseyside Police are appealing for information about the incident, and have asked any witnesses to come forward. CCTV enquiries in the area are ongoing.

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Detective Inspector Chris Clark said: “At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to why this premises was targeted. The recklessness of such an offence is clear to see, both to the business and anyone nearby. We are determined to find those responsible and have carried out extensive enquiries so far.

“On the night in question, Liverpool FC had just finished their home game with Brighton and Hove Albion so there will have been a lot of traffic in the area. If Vauxhall Road is on your route home or you were in the area, please check dashcams, CCTV and other devices in case you captured anyone near to the premises, or acting suspiciously in the vicinity.”

If you have any information, please contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 24000933498, or via their online form: Giving information anonymously | Crimestoppers.