Police launch arson investigation after blaze at Hebburn flat

Firefighters from Hebburn, South Shields and Wallsend, were called to the fire on Victoria Road West in Hebburn around 5.50pm yesterday, July 25.

Fears were raised that people could be inside a flat, but the fire service said that they had found the mid-terrace home empty and unoccupied after they entered to put out the fire.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and Northumbria Police have confirmed they are treating the blaze as a suspected arson attack.

Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to put out the fire, with a fan used to clear fumes from the flat.

The uPVC ground floor door to the flat was destroyed by the heat, as was the passageway, while the kitchen, bathroom and living room areas have been badly affected by smoke.

The three bedrooms of the flat were unaffected as the doors had been closed.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “At about 5.50pm yesterday (Wednesday, July 25), police received a report of a house fire on Victoria Road West, Hebburn.

“Emergency services attended and nobody was injured.

"Police are treating the incident as suspected arson and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible."

Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 981 250718 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.