Authorities in Western Australia have launched an arson investigation following a ferocious fire that completely destroyed a home in the Perth suburb of Bentley. The incident, which unfolded on Stannard Street, was reported after neighbours heard what sounded like an explosion.
Emergency Response to Stannard Street Blaze
Emergency services were scrambled to the single-storey property on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at approximately 11:35 am. The call to triple-0 came from a resident who reported hearing an explosion and a fire alarm sounding. Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with a dire situation.
A spokesperson for the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) confirmed the severity of the incident, stating the entire house was engulfed in flames before the structure's roof gave way and collapsed. The intensity of the fire and the resulting damage initially hampered efforts to determine if anyone was inside.
Police Confirm Arson Investigation
In an update provided on Monday, police moved to allay early fears that a person may have been unaccounted for. After the scene was made safe, it was established that nobody was missing from the burnt-out residence.
However, the suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire's ignition have prompted a formal probe. Detectives from the WA Police Arson Squad have now taken charge of the investigation. A police spokeswoman indicated that the extreme damage to the property has made pinpointing an exact cause challenging at this early stage.
Appeal for Public Information
Investigators are keen to piece together the events leading up to the destructive blaze. They are appealing to the public for any information that could assist their inquiries.
Anyone who witnessed the fire, has dashcam or mobile phone footage of the area around Stannard Street on Sunday morning, or has any relevant information is strongly urged to come forward. Information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via their online reporting portal.
The investigation remains ongoing as forensic experts work to determine the origin and cause of the fire that left a Bentley home in ruins.
