Business park fire being investigated as arson

A major fire at a business park in Crawley is being investigated as arson.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Jul 2017, 18:11 BST
Updated 18th Jul 2017, 08:27 BST
Firefighters and officers worked hard throughout the night to control the blaze. Picture: Eddie HowlandFirefighters and officers worked hard throughout the night to control the blaze. Picture: Eddie Howland
Firefighters and officers worked hard throughout the night to control the blaze. Picture: Eddie Howland

The devastating inferno destroyed a yard where fuel tankers were stored.

Plumes of smoke could be seen from miles away as more than 60 firefighters battled the flames at Rowfant Business Centre in Wallage Lane.

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A number of business units were seriously damaged in the blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Monday June 26.

Rowfant Business Centre fire. Picture: Eddie HowlandRowfant Business Centre fire. Picture: Eddie Howland
Rowfant Business Centre fire. Picture: Eddie Howland

A Sussex Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating a blaze which seriously damaged a number of business units, including a fuel depot at the Rowfant Business Centre in Wallage Lane, Rowfant, Crawley, as possible arson.”

Detective Sergeant Karrie Bohanna said: “This fire has caused extensive damage to a number of businesses, and whilst we are in the early stages of this investigation, it is clear that this will have a large impact on all those affected.

“Due to the nature of the fire, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service worked for a number of days to ensure it didn’t spread and therefore we are grateful that no one was injured.”

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Detectives are urging anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious, or who may have other relevant information, to get in touch.

Around 60 firefighters tackled the huge blaze. Picture: Eddie HowlandAround 60 firefighters tackled the huge blaze. Picture: Eddie Howland
Around 60 firefighters tackled the huge blaze. Picture: Eddie Howland

They can do so online here, by emailing [email protected] or by phoning 101, quoting Operation Wadhurst.

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via its website here.

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Rowfant Business Centre fire. Picture: Eddie HowlandRowfant Business Centre fire. Picture: Eddie Howland
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Related topics:West Sussex Fire and Rescue ServicePolice