In a shocking and unsettling incident, a Mercedes dealership located on Cobridge Road in Cobridge, Stoke-on-Trent, fell victim to an act of arson in the early hours of Sunday, January 7. Authorities have launched an urgent appeal for information as they investigate the deliberate fire that destroyed four vehicles.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene shortly after 3am following reports of the fire. Firefighters worked diligently to extinguish the flames, successfully preventing further damage. However, the investigation took a distressing turn as it was determined that the fire had been intentionally set.
Surveillance footage obtained from the dealership’s security cameras reveals a male suspect entering the premises at 02:35 GMT on Sunday, January 7. The assailant, concealing their identity with a dark-coloured hoodie and jogging bottoms, can be seen pouring petrol over one vehicle before igniting it. The fire rapidly spread to three additional cars, engulfing them in ferocious flames.
The suspect, who was wearing a glove, fled the scene on an electric scooter around 2:40 am, heading in the direction of Waterloo Road. Authorities are urgently appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or possess dash-cam footage from the vicinity to come forward and aid in the investigation. The incident reference is 064 of January 7.
To assist in this vital investigation, individuals are encouraged to contact the authorities at 101, quoting the incident reference. Alternatively, they can provide information via Live Chat on the official website. For those who wish to maintain their anonymity, Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555111.
