Did Taxi Driver Witness Arson Attack?

Detectives in Bournemouth are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after an arson attack at a property in Boscombe – with officers keen to speak with a taxi driver who may be able to assist with the investigation.

A fire was started at a block of bedsits along Gordon Road at around 4am yesterday, Tuesday 10 January 2012.

Detective Constable Jo Shewbridge, of Bournemouth CID, said:

 “Early (Tuesday) morning, a fire was started in an empty bedsit in the building and the fire alarm began to sound.

"Fortunately, the residents were woken by this alarm and were all able to get out of the property without sustaining any injuries.

“The bedsit suffered fire and smoke damage.

“I understand that a taxi driver was waiting in his vehicle along Gordon Road at roughly 4am yesterday morning, presumably to collect a fare.

“I would like to speak with this driver as it’s possible that both he and anyone that he may have picked up will have vital information about this extremely serious offence.”

The taxi driver is described as a grey haired, middle aged man. His taxi is yellow or white, with a stripe all around the vehicle.

DC Shewbridge continued:

 “I would urge any taxi driver who was waiting along Gordon Road at around 4am yesterday, Tuesday 10 January, to contact me urgently.

“I would also like to speak with anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in this area yesterday morning, and anyone with any information about the person responsible for this blaze, as soon as possible.”

Anyone who witnessed this incident, or anyone who has any information that may assist the investigation, should contact Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident 10:33 or Crime stoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.