Canterbury Police have arrested a man following a fire at an abandoned property at around 1am in the central city this morning.
Detective Greg Murray says the property had been abandoned due to earthquake damage but is understood to be used by several homeless people. “The fire started to the rear of the property and spread into the roof space causing extensive damage.”
Fortunately no-one was injured and no other properties were damaged.
A 49 year old man has been charged with arson and is due to appear in Christchurch District Court tomorrow morning (22 December 2015).
Police are keen to hear from anyone who was in the Worcester Street area near the Stanmore Road intersection prior to the fire as they may have information that can help the ongoing Police investigation.
Anyone with any information should call Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
With the extreme warm and dry weather we are experiencing in Canterbury this is a timely reminder for owners of vacant buildings to make sure they are secure and not being used illegally.
Police and the Fire Service urge members of the community to report smoke or fire as soon as possible by calling 111 to prevent fires getting out of control and causing considerable damage and potentially loss of life.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District.