Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
Lucky escape for resident after Perth home set on fire
A man has allegedly destroyed a Perth home after setting fire to it while the resident was inside, forcing them to flee to safety.
July 13, 2021
A Perth resident has fled to safety after their home was set on fire while they were inside.
West Australian police allege a 36-year-old man started the blaze that destroyed the Butler house about 2.30pm on Wednesday.
They say he travelled to the dwelling and used an accelerant to start the fire in the garage, which spread to its contents.
“The fire (then) engulfed the garage roof space, spreading to the remainder of the house,” a police spokeswoman said.
“Luckily an occupant inside the home was able to exit the house safely.”
The fire caused significant structural, smoke and cosmetic damage, rendering the home uninhabitable and beyond repair.
The total cost of the damage is estimated to be in excess of $300,000.
The man has been charged with criminal damage by fire and possessing paraphernalia in or on which there was a prohibited drug or plant.
He is scheduled to appear in Joondalup Magistrates Court on Thursday.