A man is under police guard in a Newcastle hospital after a house was completely destroyed in what authorities are calling a suspicious fire in the Hunter Valley.
Early Morning Blaze Engulfs Home
Emergency services were called to a property on Saint Helena Close in Lochinvar just after 1am on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Fire and Rescue NSW crews arrived to find the building fully engulfed in flames.
Due to the intensity of the fire, firefighters immediately began defensive operations to contain the blaze. After a sustained effort, they managed to bring the situation under control before finally extinguishing it.
Arrest and Hospitalisation
A 22-year-old man was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident. He was subsequently taken to John Hunter Hospital under police guard for assessment and treatment. The exact nature of his injuries has not been disclosed.
In a separate incident related to the emergency response, a male police sergeant suffered from smoke inhalation. He also attended John Hunter Hospital for medical treatment.
Police Launch Investigation
Officers from the Port Stephens/Hunter Police District have confirmed they are treating the fire as suspicious. They have established a crime scene at the address to conduct a thorough forensic examination.
An investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the blaze is now underway. Police are expected to comb through the remains of the destroyed home for evidence.
Fire and Rescue NSW reported that the house sustained total damage. The cause of the fire remains a key focus for investigators.
