An alleged arson incident occurred at a block of flats in Cheltenham late last night, Monday, March 31. Emergency services responded to a report of a loud explosion at Goldsmith Road in the St Marks area of Cheltenham around 11 pm.
Residents witnessed a “loud bang” and discovered a lit firework. Three individuals were able to exit the building without sustaining injuries. A witness described the event as a “loud explosion noise and smoke” at Walton House Cheltenham, prompting the arrival of emergency services.
Firefighters swiftly extinguished the fire, causing superficial damage to the block of flats. Despite no arrests being made, the police have initiated an inquiry into the incident. Authorities are appealing for witnesses and individuals with potential CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward to aid in the investigation.
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Gloucestershire Police stated, “Police are appealing for witnesses to a suspected arson at a block of flats in Cheltenham last night (Monday 31 March). Emergency services were called to Goldsmith Road in the St Marks area at around 11 pm with a report that residents had woken to a loud bang and found a lit firework.”
“Investigating officers have conducted house to house and forensic enquiries and would now like to hear from anyone who has ring doorbell, CCTV or dashcam footage in the area from between 11 pm and midnight. They would also like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed anyone running away at the time.”