Arson Squad detectives have charged a man as a result of their investigation into a house fire in Barragup (near Mandurah) and a vehicle fire in Bayswater.
It will be alleged the 28-year-old man set fire to a house in Fiegert Road, Barragup on Friday 20 January 2023. The damage to the home is estimated at $700,000. It will be further alleged, prior to setting fire to the house, the man had attended the home on previous occasions, breaking in and stealing property, including a number of firearms.
The firearms were retrieved from the Canning River based on information provided to officers from members of the public.
It will also be alleged the man set fire to a stolen red Holden VF SS Commodore valued at approximately $70,000. The car was located totally destroyed by fire on Saturday 21 January 2023, at a car park located on Memorial Drive in Bayswater.
Arson Squad detectives charged a 28-year-old man from Thornlie with:
• Two counts of Criminal Damage by Fire (each offences carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment);
• One count of Burglary and Commit;
• One count of Stealing; and
• One count of Steal Motor Vehicle.
He was refused bail and is next due to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court on 23 February 2023.
Arson Squad detectives urge anyone with any information relating to suspicious or deliberately lit fires to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.
