A 35-year-old man from inner north Canberra has been taken into custody, accused of deliberately starting a fire that destroyed a scooter and spread to a nearby car in a residential basement car park.
Fire Spreads in Lyneham Car Park
The incident occurred around 9pm on Friday, December 5, 2025, at a residence on De Burgh Street in the suburb of Lyneham. Emergency services were called to the scene following reports of a fire.
According to ACT Policing, the blaze began with a scooter but quickly intensified. The flames are alleged to have "expanded and engulfed a nearby vehicle," causing significant damage within the underground parking area.
Admissions and Arrest
Police state that the accused man made admissions about starting the fire to another resident of the apartment complex. This information contributed to his subsequent arrest.
The 35-year-old has been charged with a single count of arson. He is scheduled to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court on Saturday, December 12, 2025.
Community Impact and Aftermath
The ACT Emergency Services Agency responded to the incident and reported smoke in the local area on Friday night. As a precaution, nearby residents were advised to close their windows and remain indoors, while the general public was asked to avoid the vicinity.
By Saturday morning, the structure fire was listed as "completed" on the agency's incident map, indicating the situation was under control and emergency operations had concluded.
The case highlights the serious risks associated with arson, particularly in confined residential spaces like basement car parks, where fire can spread rapidly to other property.
