Man arrested after fires started in Bristol overnight
Suspect identified and arrested with the help of CCTV teams
A 36-year-old man has been arrested following a series of fires started across Bristol overnight.
Emergency services were alerted to several bin fires in locations including Totterdown, Broadmead, Nelson Street, Corn Street, and Welsh Back early this morning.
The incidents were first reported at around 3.15am by Avon Fire and Rescue Service.
Bristol City Council’s CCTV team assisted police officers in identifying a suspect at approximately 4.50am, which led to an arrest about 25 minutes later.
Chief Inspector Keith Smith said: “Officers worked tirelessly overnight with firefighters and council CCTV staff in response to these fires and this led to a man being arrested on suspicion of arson. He was transported into custody, where he remains.
“These fires will have a financial impact, including to one business which sustained some exterior building damage.
“Fortunately, we do not believe anyone was injured. Deliberately starting a fire is incredibly dangerous and another time could have led to far more serious consequences.”