Chaos erupted yesterday morning at a BP petrol station in Lee-on-the-Solent, Hampshire, when a man armed with an axe set fire to pumps and cars. The terrifying incident shocked the quiet seaside town.
Hampshire Police were called at 11:15am after reports of a violent disturbance at the BP station on Broom Way. Witnesses saw the man with an axe moments before flames erupted, quickly engulfing the forecourt and vehicles.
Firefighters from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire Service and paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service arrived quickly to tackle the fierce fire. They found the man injured and suffering burns at the scene.
The injured man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He was rushed to Queen Alexandra Hospital for treatment of burns and smoke inhalation.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the shocking fire that could have caused much worse. Locals remain stunned by the violent attack on their community’s petrol station.
Originally published by UKNIP.