CCTV appeal after Audi and Range Rover deliberately set on fire during Blackburn arson attacks

Police were first called to reports of criminal damage in Preston New Road at around 2pm on Wednesday (March 22).

Officers were later called back to the street after a blue Range Rover and a white Audi RS5 were deliberately set alight at 7.30pm.

A man was reported seen running away from the area after the cars were set on fire.

A 37-year-old man from Blackburn was later arrested on suspicion of criminal damage – arson endangering life.

He was later released with no further action.

Det Insp Charles Stewart, of Blackburn CID, said: “This incident has caused significant damage to the cars and could easily have resulted in somebody being seriously injured.

“It is being treated as a targeted attack and we have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this case.

“Our enquiries are very much ongoing and we now need to speak to the man in the CCTV still.

“I would also ask people with CCTV, doorbell cameras or dashcam which captured anything in that area between 7.15pm and 7.45pm to make contact with us. I also want to hear from any witnesses or anybody with mobile phone footage which would assist our enquiries.

“Reassurance patrols have been increased in the area as a precaution.”

Anyone with information has been urged to email [email protected] or call 101, quoting log number 1325 of March 22, 2023.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.