UPDATE
Development in Stokes Valley Arson Investigation
Police are appealing to the Stokes Valley community for assistance in identifying a barefoot man seen riding a bicycle near a suspicious fire that critically injured an 82-year-old resident early Tuesday morning.
Emergency services responded to a blaze at a block of flats on Hanson Grove at around 3:10 a.m. on Tuesday, 5 November. The incident marks the third suspicious fire at the same property in less than a month, with previous fires reported on 10 and 14 October.
Detective Inspector Haley Ryan says the man seen near the flats could be a key witness. “Someone in the Stokes Valley community will know who this male is. We believe he’s a local resident,” she says. “We urge him to come forward or for anyone with information about him to contact us. He may hold valuable information that could aid in identifying those responsible for these fires.”
Police are also requesting CCTV or dashcam footage from residents and drivers who were in the area during the early hours on Tuesday. Detective Inspector Ryan emphasises that the elderly victim is a respected long-term member of the community, and that he and his family deserve answers.
Anyone with information about the fires or potential sightings of the barefoot cyclist is encouraged to report it online, call 105, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111. Reference number 241105/2249 and Operation SOVE should be quoted for this investigation.