Middle Swan Bushfire Investigated as Suspicious After Threatening TAFE and Homes
A bushfire that ignited in Middle Swan on Tuesday evening, posing a significant threat to a local TAFE campus and nearby residences, is now under investigation by specialist police officers who have deemed the blaze suspicious. The fire, which remains active at an advice level, prompted a swift response from emergency services to prevent its spread to vulnerable areas.
Emergency Response and Containment Efforts
At approximately 5:40 PM on Tuesday, emergency services were alerted to a bushfire in the bushland surrounding Eddie Barron Drive and Gray Drive in Middle Swan. Crews from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) worked diligently to contain the flames, successfully averting damage to the North Metropolitan TAFE Midland campus and adjacent homes. Despite these efforts, the fire continues to burn, with authorities maintaining a vigilant watch over the situation.
Ongoing Alerts and Road Closures
Residents within the boundaries of Lloyd Street, Eddie Barron Drive, Roe Highway, Patterson Drive, Mockeridge Circuit, Sprint Close, and Murace Place are advised to stay alert and monitor their surroundings closely due to the persistent fire risk. In response to the incident, Patterson Drive between Spiers Place and Criterium Place has been closed to traffic, impacting local access and transportation routes in the area.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Strike Force Vulcan, a specialized police unit, has taken charge of the investigation into the bushfire's origins. Officers are urging anyone who was in the vicinity around the time of the fire and witnessed suspicious persons or activities to come forward. Information can be reported to Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1800 333 000. Additionally, investigators are seeking any relevant CCTV footage, mobile phone recordings, or dash cam vision, which can be uploaded directly to a designated online portal for evidence collection.
Rewards for Information
To encourage public cooperation, rewards of up to $25,000 are being offered for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist responsible for the fire. This incentive underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident, highlighting the potential dangers posed by such blazes to community safety and property.
The investigation remains ongoing as police work to determine the exact cause of the fire and hold any responsible parties accountable. Residents are reminded to remain cautious and report any suspicious behavior to assist in the swift resolution of this alarming event.
