A man’s been arrested following a suspected arson attack in Swindon.
A family home in Downton Road was destroyed by fire at around 7pm yesterday (Friday 21 July).
Firefighters hosed down the Penhill house as flames spread rapidly throughout the building.
Today (Saturday), Wiltshire Police confirmed an arson investigation has been launched – with one in custody in connection with the incident.
The suspect, a man aged in his 30s, is being held on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and burglary.
A National Police Air Service helicopter was seen to be circling Swindon shortly after the fire – as officers searched for a ‘male wearing a face covering’ in the Seven Fields area.
It’s understood that nobody was inside the house at the time of the fire, but a local man reportedly warned neighbours to evacuated as the raging blaze took hold.
One woman said: “Luckily no one home at the time.
“My friend was passing by and noticed the fire, he raised the alarm, calling the fire brigade and alerting the neighbours either side.
“Terrible for the family but fortunately no injuries.”
