Police are appealing for dashcam footage after a series of grass fires in the Hunter Valley were deemed 'suspicious'. Between March 2 and April 24, a total of 24 grass fires were reported in areas surrounding Singleton. The fires occurred along the Golden Highway at Warkworth, and Mitchell Line of Road, Jerrys Plains Road, and Putty Road at Mount Thorley.
Hunter Valley Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Andrew Wheatley, said the pattern of fires is concerning. Police said of the 24 fires, 17 have been classified as 'suspicious or the cause undetermined'. They all occurred on weekdays between 12pm and 5pm. Due to the extremely dry conditions, police and firefighters warn there is a significant risk of a major fire that could impact local homes, businesses and the broader community.
Police Concern Over Fire Pattern
Detective Inspector Andrew Wheatley expressed serious concern about the frequency, timing and locations of these fires, particularly given the dry conditions across the Hunter Valley. He warned that a fire under these conditions has the potential to spread rapidly and place lives, property and emergency services personnel at risk.
Appeal for Dashcam Footage
Investigators are urging anyone who was travelling through the affected areas to assist. They are specifically asking motorists who were in these locations between midday and 5pm on weekdays to review any dashcam footage they may have. Even something that might seem insignificant, such as a vehicle pulled over or a person behaving unusually, could be critical to the investigation.
Hunter Valley Police are working with the NSW Rural Fire Service and are appealing to residents and road users to report any suspicious behaviour. Anyone with information is urged to contact Branxton police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
