A YOUNGER was arrested on suspicion of arson outside a popular pet store.
Firefighters were called to Pets at Home on Sompting Road in Worthing on Sunday at 4:45 p.m.
Pallets were on fire in the back of the store, which also damaged oxygen tanks, it was reported.
Store staff said they were lucky no animals or people were injured in the blaze.
A police investigation is underway and officers are asking witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
On Facebook, Pets at Home posted images of the blaze showing flames spreading from pallets and engulfing the fence.
An image shows the flames behind the Pets at Home store in Sompting after an alleged arson attack
Damage was also caused to the rear cladding of the building.
The store said it was “saddened and shocked” by the incident and said: “We are very fortunate and grateful for the efforts of the fire department and the police to bring the situation under control as effectively as they did.
There was an alleged arson attack at the Pets at Home store in Sompting Road, Worthing
“There were still colleagues on the premises as well as a number of pets and the thoughts of what could have been are horrible.
“The fire started right next to the emergency exit and also right next to our stored oxygen cylinders, we are so lucky this situation is not much worse.
The consequences of the fire at the Pets at Home store in Sompting
“Unfortunately the oxygen supply lines have been damaged and badly melted, they will need to be evaluated and repaired urgently, but that means we won’t be able to do surgery until we have more. information.
“We will contact those affected and appreciate your understanding.”
The consequences of the fire at the Pets at Home store in Sompting
In a statement on the incident, Sussex Police said: “We are investigating a report of pallets on fire outside Pets at Home in Sompting Road, Worthing at 4:45 pm on Sunday.
“The officers and fire crews were present and the fire was brought under control.
“No person or animal was injured.
“A 15-year-old local boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson and released under investigation pending further investigation.”
The force said anyone who witnessed what happened, or who has information that could aid investigations, can report it to Sussex Police online or call 101, citing 894 on 05/09 .
• For news delivered directly to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter here. And for the latest court news, like our dedicated Facebook group here.
More about this article: Read More
Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-05-11 12:07:40
