Detectives investigating a fire at a communications mast in Bathampton last year, which caused thousands of homes to lose television signal, have arrested a man on suspicion of arson.
The fire caused damage worth several hundred thousand pounds and affected TV, radio and mobile phone signals to thousands of homes and businesses on January 3rd, 2013.
Since then police have been investigating the fire and today (Friday 25th July) a man, aged 30, has been arrested on suspicion of arson. He’s currently in custody where he will be interviewed about the offence.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Bevan, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “The scale of the damage and the disruption to our communities means this is clearly an offence we are taking extremely seriously.
“Over the past 18 months we’ve been conducting a detailed investigation which has at times been painstaking work as we methodically worked through the evidence. However, today we’ve arrested a suspect and this is a big step forward for the investigation.
“I hope that the arrest demonstrates our resolve to investigate arsons and ensure offenders are held to account for their disruptive, dangerous and potentially deadly actions.”
The progress comes in a week when officers also arrested a man in connection with an arson in Bristol. On Wednesday (23rd July) a man, aged 20, was arrested on suspicion of arson following car fires in Glebe Road, St. George last month.
After being questioned about the fires he was released on bail while police continue their enquiries.
If you have information about either of these offences, or any other fires which have been started deliberately, please call Avon and Somerset Police on 101.
