A 55-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life after a fire broke out in Birmingham, leading to the evacuation of several homes. The incident occurred on Hillmeads Road in Druids Heath shortly after 3pm on Thursday, August 13.
Fire prompts evacuations and arrest
West Midlands Police confirmed that no one was injured in the blaze, but damage was caused to some houses. The arrested man remains in police custody as of Friday afternoon. The force stated: "A man's been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out in Birmingham. The fire broke out on Hillmeads Road shortly after 3pm yesterday, and a number of properties were evacuated because of it."
"Thankfully, we don't believe anyone was injured but damage has been caused to some houses. A man aged 55 was arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life and remains in police custody this afternoon," a spokesperson added.
Regional fire incidents and support
The fire in Druids Heath occurred as West Midlands Fire Service was dealing with a string of major incidents across the region. Police said: "Across the West Midlands, we continue to support West Midlands Fire Service and other partners who are dealing with a number of fires, and our thoughts remain with affected communities."
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Stourbridge on Friday, August 14, following a devastating fire that ripped through the area. The blaze, thought to have started at Stourbridge Golf Club, quickly spread to nearby homes, forcing families to flee the previous day.
Evacuees await return
A number of properties in Stourbridge were evacuated, with displaced residents not yet aware of when they'll be able to return. The full extent of the damage in both incidents remains under assessment as authorities continue their response.
