Man arrested over suspected arson attacks

A man has been arrested in connection with a series of suspected arson attacks in Sheffield.

The 42-year-old was held earlier on suspicion of arson/criminal damage with intent to endanger life, South Yorkshire Police said.

It was now believed that three fires reported in Tynker Avenue, Bramshill Close and Meadow Gate Avenue on Sunday and Tuesday could be linked to eight other incidents which had taken place this year, a force spokesperson said.

Additional patrols, including plain-clothed officers, had been deployed to the Beighton area and anyone with information about the incidents was asked to get in touch, they added.

The blaze in Tynker Avenue on Sunday involved a bin fire that spread to a property, while a caravan was set alight in Bramshill Close on the same day, with the fire spreading to an adjacent property, police said previously.

Meanwhile, a third blaze was reported in Meadow Gate Avenue on Tuesday and involved a wheelie bin fire spreading to two cars, a Land Rover Defender and a Porsche Taycan, as well as to a nearby property.

No one was injured in any of these incidents, according to South Yorkshire Police.

Neighbourhood Inspector Katie Hammond said: "We understand the concern these incidents have caused in and around Beighton, and would like to thank those who live, work, and travel in the area for their patient support so far.

"If you want to share your concerns with us, please contact the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

"We are here to keep you and your community safe and are always happy to reassure you in any way we can."

The arrested man remained in custody, South Yorkshire Police said.

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