Detectives are currently investigating a suspicious fire that broke out in Onkaparinga Hills, located in Adelaide’s southern region. The blaze, which occurred yesterday near Armata Road in Woodcroft just before 5pm, quickly spread across Education Road, endangering four homes and a horse stable. Security camera footage captured the rapid progression of the fire as it engulfed the surrounding scrubland, raising concerns about potential deliberate arson.
Residents Share Terrifying Experiences
Local residents, like Shay Christo, expressed their fear and shock at the proximity of the fire to their homes. Christo shared, “It was definitely a scary experience for sure. It’s the closest I’ve ever seen it get to the house in probably 15 years of living here.” Another resident, Greg Ingleton, reported hearing explosions and witnessing a car hastily leaving the scene, further fueling suspicions of foul play.
Firefighters Brave the Flames
Firefighters, with the assistance of water bombers, managed to protect all properties at risk, averting a potential disaster. However, four firefighters sustained injuries during the intense battle against the flames. Additionally, two koalas with burnt paws were rescued amidst the chaos, highlighting the impact of the fire on local wildlife.
Authorities Investigate Possible Arson
Authorities now believe that the fire may have been intentionally ignited, citing CCTV footage that captured the distinctive sound of explosions. As a result, detectives have been called in to delve deeper into the origins of the fire and determine if criminal activity was involved in this alarming incident.
The community in Onkaparinga Hills remains on edge as they await further updates from the ongoing investigation into the suspicious fire that shook their neighborhood. The potential threat of deliberate arson has raised concerns about the safety and security of residents in the area, emphasizing the importance of swift and thorough action by law enforcement.