Search for
Search for
Search forBizarre arson attacks on Bideford doorbells
Thursday, August 28, 2008, 07:00
Several doorbells were set on fire in East-the-Water over the bank holiday weekend.
An elderly couple were among the residents who discovered flames licking their front door late on Friday night.
Bideford fire station group manager Neil Blackburn said: "This is the first time we have dealt with this type of incident and — while it might seem innocuous — fire can spread easily and a fire in a doorway is barring an exit.
"This is one of the most dangerous places for fire to break out and at a time when people could be asleep. It is highly dangerous and could put lives at risk."
The fire brigade received calls from six householders in East Ridge View and Chudleigh Avenue.
A hedge was also set alight in East Ridge View as well as rubbish next to a garage in an alleyway behind Barton Tors.
A couple of days later, further arson attacks on doorbells were reported in Barton Tors.
Firefighters were initially called to a smoke alarm sounding in an empty property in East Ridge View on Friday night. Burning material had been stuffed through a letterbox.
The same property also had its doorbell set alight alongside two neighbouring properties.
One resident who did not want to be named said: "I happened to go into the kitchen. My son was behind me and pointed out an orange glow at the front door and said he thought it was a fire.
"I thought it was the street light but got closer and smelled burning plastic. I opened the door and there were flames to the right of me. I was in a panic.
"I am paranoid at the slightest noise and do not want a doorbell here anymore. There could have been fatalities."
Another resident, who also did not want to be named, added: "About 11.20pm on Friday I was in the bathroom getting ready to go to bed when the bell rang once. I heard a funny noise like a buzzing coming from what I believe is a box linked to the doorbell. I then saw flames through the front door.
"It is very weird but also worrying as even though these were minor attacks, it is still arson — and arson of any sort is dangerous."
Police spokesman are still investigating the incidents. No arrests have been made.
BURNT: two of the destroyed doorbells.
Be the first to comment