As a result of an extensive investigation, detectives from the Arson Squad’s Strike Force Vulcan have charged a man they allege deliberately set fire to bushland on two occasions in 2017 and 2018.
The first incident occurred on Monday 25 December 2017. It is alleged around 3am the man set fire to scrub on a vacant block located on Gertrude Avenue in Camillo. The fire quickly spread and came close to neighbouring homes before being extinguished.
The second fire occurred on Monday 29 January 2018. It is alleged around 4pm the man set fire to bushland located on Cockram Road bordered by Connell Avenue and Ciro Road in Kelmscott. Due to the hot conditions on the day, the fire burnt 12 hectares and spread to a nearby property, damaging bushland and a fence.
On Saturday 10 March 2018, Detectives charged a 26 year old man of no fixed address with two counts of Wilfully Light or Cause to be Lit a Fire Likely to Injure or Damage.
He is due to appear in the Armadale Magistrates Court on 16 March 2018.
Detectives continue to investigate numerous other fires that have occurred in the area since December 2017. Anyone with any information regarding fires in the Armadale, Camillo and Kelmscott areas is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au Callers may remain anonymous if they wish.