Speed camera destroyed by arsonists
Emergency services were called to the camera, situated in Peverell on Outland Road opposite the Esso petrol station, at about 1.05am yesterday.
A blue Volvo 740 had been parked up directly below the camera and set alight.
Firefighters from Greenbank fire station put out the blaze which completely destroyed the car and melted the camera.
House-to-house enquiries were carried out following the blaze, which was reported by a member of the public.
Police are treating the incident as arson and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Alan Mobbs, spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police, said officers are also trying to trace the owner of the car.
“This was extremely dangerous when you consider the fuel in the vehicle and the electrics inside the speed camera,” Mr Mobbs said.
“The fire could have easily spread and created an even more dangerous scenario.
“It also put firefighters at risk who were called upon to put out the fire.
“We are treating this as an arson attack and we would appeal to anyone who might have seen something to get in touch with us.”
A spokesman for the Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “One appliance from Greenbank was mobilised to a report of a car fire under a speed camera.
“Upon arrival the crew found one car well alight, which was parked under the speed camera, which was also involved in fire.
“Firefighters wore breathing apparatus and used one hose reel to extinguish the fires.
“The crew also used hydraulic cutting equipment to ensure the fire within the camera had been put out.
“Police attended and are investigating the cause.”
Anyone with any information is urged to call the police on 08452 777 444 quoting the log number 33 of September 8, or the crime reference number ED09 6404.
Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Comment on this story