Authorities in Western Australia are treating a significant house fire in Perth's eastern suburbs as suspicious, with specialist detectives now leading the investigation.
Emergency Response to Sydenham Street Blaze
Firefighters were called to a property on Sydenham Street in Rivervale just after 10:30 PM on Tuesday night. Upon arrival, crews from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) found the single-storey brick and tile home well alight.
The fire caused extensive damage to the roof and interior of the residence. Firefighters worked diligently to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring properties. They successfully extinguished the fire, but the home was left severely damaged.
Arson Squad Takes Over Investigation
Due to the circumstances surrounding the incident, the scene was declared a crime scene. The WA Police Force's Arson Squad has taken charge of the investigation to determine the exact cause and origin of the fire.
Police have confirmed they are treating the fire as suspicious. Forensic officers conducted a detailed examination of the charred remains of the house throughout Wednesday, searching for evidence that could point to how the fire started.
A police spokesperson stated that inquiries into the incident are ongoing. Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire. It is understood the property was unoccupied at the time the blaze broke out.
Appeal for Information from Public
As part of their investigation, police are urging anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking to witnesses or anyone who noticed suspicious activity in the Sydenham Street area around the time of the fire.
Authorities have asked residents and motorists with dashcam footage from the vicinity between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM on Tuesday to contact Crime Stoppers. The appeal highlights the community's role in assisting police with their inquiries into serious incidents like this.
The investigation by the Arson Squad continues as they work to piece together the events that led to the destructive fire in Rivervale.
