A petrol station in Lee-on-the-Solent, Hampshire, was engulfed in flames following an incident where a man was reportedly seen brandishing an axe. The dramatic scene captured on video showed cars and a petrol pump ablaze at the BP Garage. Nick Lawrence, a nearby resident, expressed concerns for his safety and property as the fire rapidly spread. He recounted how the smoke posed a threat to his home, fearing the potential consequences if the entire garage was consumed by the flames.
Authorities from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police confirmed the arrest of a man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life in connection with the incident. The police responded to reports of a disturbance at the BP Petrol Station on Broom Way around 11:15 am. It was reported that an individual was spotted wielding an axe on the forecourt, leading to a fire that quickly spread to multiple vehicles and fuel pumps.
Upon arrival at the scene, emergency services discovered a man with burn injuries, who was subsequently arrested. The suspect was then transported to Queen Alexandra Hospital for treatment of burns and smoke inhalation injuries. Fortunately, no other casualties were reported.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service detailed the extent of the fire, which affected two cars and a petrol pump on the station’s forecourt. Fire crews from Gosport, Fareham, and Cosham swiftly responded to the blaze, extinguishing it using two main jets. Following the successful operation, the road closure put in place during the emergency response was lifted.
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