A TEENAGER has been arrested in connection with a suspected arson attack in Taunton that left seven vehicles – including some used to transport disabled people – destroyed.
Police are investigating the incident, which happened at the Silk Mills Park and Ride site in Bishops Hull at around 7.50pm on Saturday night (April 26).
The vehicles, including four minibuses used to transport vulnerable children and young adults, were parked in a Somerset Council compound at the site.
The council said the compound was locked and is monitored by CCTV.
Meanwhile, police confirmed a 17-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of arson, assault by beating of an emergency worker, and affray. He remains in police custody.
READ MORE: Police probe after seven vehicles damaged by fire at Taunton park and ride site
“There were no injuries, but in addition to the four destroyed specialist vehicles worth up to £250,000, three other vehicles were badly damaged,” a Somerset Council spokesperson said.
“Despite this, all Park and Ride services ran as normal from the site, and thanks to the dedication and the hard work of the Somerset Council Transport Team 16 SEN college routes, two vulnerable adult bus services and nine community routes operated as normal after drivers pitched in over the weekend to get alternative vehicles to the site ahead of Monday (28 April).”
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture, said: “This is an appalling incident and we are providing all the help we can to police to assist their ongoing investigation.
“However, I would like to pay tribute to our fantastic transport team. Staff gave up some of their Sunday to make sure we had the extra buses we needed to make sure some of our most vulnerable children and young people had their essential transport services on Monday morning.
“It was a fantastic effort and we’re really grateful to them.
“We have even been offered the loan of specialised vehicles from two local businesses. At times like this you really do see the best of people in Somerset.”
An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson added: “A teenager has been arrested by officers investigating a fire in Taunton in which seven specially adapted minibuses were destroyed.
“We were called by the fire service shortly after 7.50pm on Saturday reporting the vehicles, which are used by people with disabilities and schoolchildren, were alight at Silk Mills Park and Ride. No one was injured.
“Fire investigators later determined the cause of the fire to be deliberate ignition, and a police investigation began.”
The 17-year-old was arrested on Sunday and PCSO Supervisor, Sam Bushen, said: “We know the substantial impact the loss of these vehicles will have on some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
“As soon as the incident was first reported, a thorough investigation was launched, and last night’s arrest was a significant milestone in that.”
Anyone with information that may help the investigation should call 101 and give the reference number 5225117181.
