Did 'pyromaniac' torch street full of cars in Swansea?
Fearful residents say they are mystified why they were targeted in what could have been a tragic incident.
Police are investigating after the weekend's fires in Pentrechwyth Road and Foxhole Road, Swansea, which have left residents angry and baffled.
It is feared a pyromaniac could be behind the attack.
One theory being talked about by residents was that the incident was a revenge attack by an arsonist who had recently been released from prison — a rumour dismissed by police.
Eastside Inspector Darren George described the attack as indiscriminate and mindless.
He said: "People have parked their vehicles safe in the knowledge that they are locked and secured, only to find out later they have been burned out for no apparent reason. These people will no doubt be greatly inconvenienced by these senseless acts."
Police and fire crews were called to the scene at 4.25am on Sunday.
Six cars, parked on the roadside and pavement, along a half-mile stretch of the A4217, were completely burned out.
Toxic smoke billowed from the vehicles as they burned. Firefighters were on the scene quickly and avoided the fire spreading.
A number of residents claimed a further three cars were partially damaged, but police said there was only one other car vandalised — a blue Seat.
Officers are not ruling out the fires were caused by "a pyromaniac" and have confirmed six vehicles have since been sent away for forensic tests.
While the investigation goes on owners of the damaged cars were bracing themselves for a third day of dealing with their insurance companies. Bus driver Scott Jones, aged 26, of Foxhole Road, is now car-less after his Renault Scenic was torched.
He said: "It's been a total nightmare. I've been on the phone all day to the insurance to try to get a company car but to little avail. It's caused a lot of hassle from getting to work to taking the kids to school. I can't understand why someone would do this.
"Cars along the street have had their wing-mirrors kicked off or been scratched in the past, but nothing like this."
A police spokesman said: "The vehicles were a green Daihatsu Cuore, a green Vauxhall Zafira, a silver Ford Fiesta, a white Peugeot Partner van, a grey Renault Scenic, and a black Renault Clio."
Meanwhile, Mid West and Wales Fire Service arson reduction manager Ryland Williams praised his fire crews for containing the fires.
He said: "It is very unusual for such a number of cars to be set alight in one go.
"The crews were on the scene very quickly, therefore greatly reducing the risk of the fire spreading. There is no doubt that these fires were malicious."
Anyone who saw, or who may know anything in relation to the fires, is asked to call police on 01792 456999.
ben.wright@swwmedia.co.uk
One of the cars attacked in Foxhole Road. JM070110/A/1
