Officers at the Riverina Police District are investigating a unit fire that occurred on Friday morning.
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Detective Chief Inspector Darren Cloake said the fire broke out on the veranda of an apartment just before 3am this morning.
“There is a crime scene currently held at 5 Bentley Place in central here,” he said.
“A resident of the units heard a hissing sound and got up to investigate.
“He found the contents on the front of his veranda area were on fire.”
Detective Chief Inspector Cloake said the man looked out further and saw a neighbouring property was facing the same situation, with its veranda contents on fire.
“We understand that a witness grabbed a garden hose and actually extinguished the fire,” he said.
“We believe that fire itself is suspicious. There was a strong smell of accelerant and we again appeal to any witnesses or neighbours from that area that might come forward with some information.”
Detectives are currently onsite and canvassing for evidence, Detective Chief Inspector Cloake said.
“In terms of motive for the case, it’s difficult to tell at this stage, it’s early hours,” he said.
Detective Chief Inspector Cloake said it hasn’t been ruled out as a targeted crime.
“It’s pretty random to have a fire of that type,” he said.
“I would say you couldn’t discount that at this stage.
“It is a serious offense, endangering life by setting fire to a person’s house.”
No one was injured as a result of the fire and Detective Chief Inspector Cloake said they are appealing for witnesses.