UPDATED: A blaze that sent flames 15ft into the air at a derelict building in Shanklin last night (Saturday) was most likely started deliberately, according to the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
Daylight has revealed the extent of the fire, which has destroyed a two-storey disused building off Palmerston Road and left it in an unsafe condition. The site has now been secured and the public are being advised to stay clear of the area.
Firefighters remained at the scene until around 05:00 this morning, with one pumping appliance returning at 08:00 to check over the charred remains.
At the height of the incident 6 pumping appliances, an aerial appliance, a water carrier, an Incident Command Unit, Police and ambulance crews were all in attendance.
Families living in the adjoining buildings have this morning expressed their disgust at the actions of the individual or group that may have started the fire, which could have easily had a different outcome. Amazingly, no one was injured in the incident and nearby properties were saved from the flames, although slight heat damage to a window and gutter has been sustained to one building.
Investigations conducted by Police and fire officers overnight and this morning have concluded that it is most likely that the fire was started on purpose, however, officers have been unable to safely inspect the entire building due to its unsafe condition.
Emergency services have now left the scene and have brought the incident to a close.
All road closures in the area have been lifted.
UPDATE @ 17:15 – Recalling the dramatic events of last night, resident Shelley Watkinson has this afternoon said:
“Worrying about the people in the flats joining on to the burning building, myself and my neighbour ran to quickly evacuate them, which seemed like forever.
“As we came back through the alleyway all the guttering was falling and other neighbours were calling to us to stay where we were – we just ran for it.
“The heat was so immense it was burning our faces as we watched and waited for the fire brigade to arrive.
“I am so glad that we were going out to the shop at the time to see it and call 999 as if they had got there any later the flats joining the building would not have had a chance. Just seconds before you could see them uttering and other flats melting and windows were starting to crack.
“I am just glad that no one got hurt and we managed to get who we could out in time”.
Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time are asked to call DC Julia Parker at Newport Police Station on 101 quoting 44160101471. Information can also be given anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.
VIDEO:
