Northern Territory Police have finalised the investigation into a large bushfire that occurred at Leonino Road, Darwin River, earlier this month.
On 8 August 2023, an Emergency Warning was issued by Bushfires NT for a fire that spread throughout a number of properties destroying one home and several vehicles. The fire required a large scale multi-agency response from Bushfires NT, NT Fire and Rescue Service and NT Police and initial investigations deemed the cause of the fire to be suspicious.
Further enquiries by Northern Territory Police and Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service fire investigators have revealed the fire appears to be accidental and likely started as a result of machinery being used on a rural property.
Investigators would like to thank the members of the public who provided vital information via 131444 and Crime Stoppers.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer said “Late in the dry season when grasses and vegetation are at their driest, strong, dry winds can lead to fires so intense that they are difficult to fight and control. This fire is a timely reminder to ask yourself if you and your property are prepared for fire.
“Your Bushfire Survival Plan will help you take action and avoid making last minute decisions that could prove deadly during a bushfire.”
