Canterbury Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a child’s playground located in the park adjacent to Barrington Shopping Mall was set alight causing substantial damage to the equipment shortly before 1am this morning (13 March 2015).
A member of the public alerted the Fire Service to the incident as they drove past the area and saw the playground equipment fully alight at approximately 1am. Fire Service and Police attended the scene and a thorough scene examination has been undertaken. This confirmed that the fire was deliberately lit by someone without using any accelerant and further investigations are ongoing.
Detective Phil McDonnell said “It is very concerning that someone would intentionally target a child’s play area which is relatively new. While staff were completing the scene examination this morning a number of parents and children turned up to use the facility. One child was in tears saying this was his favourite playground and a number of other children and parents were upset at this mindless act of vandalism.”
“We believe the fire was lit shortly before it was seen by a passing motorist and urge anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area prior to 1am or has any information that may be of assistance to contact Police straight away. It is not known if the person who lit the fire was injured but Police have not received any reports of injuries from the public. Any health professionals who have been approached by someone for treatment for burns or smoke inhalation this morning are also to contact Police” said Detective McDonnell.
Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to call Police on 03 363 7400 option 1.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Media Note - Detective McDonnell is available to verbalise this release this afternoon – if you want to book an interview please text the District Communications Manager on 021 942 404 ASAP.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404
