Four teenagers arrested after Acomb field fire caused £30,000 damage
Police believe the fire was started with a lighter and quickly spread across a farmer’s field off Askham Lane
Four teenagers have been arrested in connection with a suspected arson attack that caused around £30,000 worth of damage to a farmer’s field in Acomb.
Emergency services were called to Askham Lane shortly after 3.30pm on Sunday 12 July following reports.
It required a significant emergency response, police say.
The fire is believed to have been started using a lighter.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "An investigation indicated that the fire was started using a lighter before rapidly spreading across the field and becoming uncontrollable within a very short period of time."
This morning (Friday 17 July), officers arrested four 14-year-olds — two boys and two girls — in connection with the fire.
Two girls who were arrested on the day have now been released and aren't being treated as suspects in relation to this fire.
They do however remain under investigation over a separate suspected arson reported later that same evening.
"Devastating consequences"
Sergeant Ben Ambler, from York Outer Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “What may begin as a seemingly minor act can quickly escalate, causing extensive damage, placing lives at risk, and placing significant demands on emergency services.”
He added: “With the current warm, dry weather conditions, even a small flame can have devastating consequences.”
Sgt Ambler also praised two members of the public, Jay and Cameron, who helped stop the fire spreading before firefighters arrived.
He said: “I want to recognise Jay and Cameron, who acted quickly and courageously before the arrival of the fire service by creating a firebreak that helped prevent the fire from spreading further.”
Concerns
People with concerns about a young person playing with fire can make a FireSafe referral through North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Information about deliberate fire-setting can be shared anonymously through FireStoppers by calling 0800 169 5558 or visiting firestoppersreport.co.uk.