Firefighters have confirmed they will be passing on a case to the police for investigation after a house went up in flames earlier today. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the fire.
The semi-detached property on Theodore Road, Bucknall, has stood empty since it caught ablaze back in August 2020. Now neighbours say the derelict home has become a regular target for delinquents.
One neighbour told StokeonTrentLive: “This is the third time it’s been on fire. I think it needs knocking down, it’s too unstable and kids seem to hang around. The fire has been coming through the roof.”
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service scrambled to the scene earlier after receiving a call at around 1.15pm. Three fire engines from the Hanley, Longton, and Burslem stations attended, along with an aerial lift vehicle.
According to Hanley Station Manager Ant Ball, around 18 firefighters were tasked with putting out the flames over the course of the day.
He stated: “The fire was contained to a single dwelling of a semi-detached house. We have crews working on the site to ensure it’s safe, and a building inspector will be along to evaluate the stability of the property shortly.
“We will be passing this along to the police. At this time we cannot confirm whether or not it is the result of arson – that will be for the police to decide.”
Station Manager Ball also issued a safety warning to parents in the area. He added: “We would advise parents of local children to be cautious as to where they are playing. There are a few derelict properties in the area which may be accessible and which may not be safe. If the building has been left unwatched, you can’t know what condition the property is in and what dangers might be present.”