Arson Unit detectives will address the media to appeal for public assistance as they continue to investigate a suspicious house fire on Sydney’s Lower North Shore at the weekend.
About 10.50pm on Saturday 3 September 2022, emergency services were called to Cliff Road, Northwood, following reports of a house fire.
Fire and Rescue NSW fire fighters worked through the night to extinguish the blaze; however, the house sustained significant damage.
No one was home at the time and no injuries were reported.
A crime scene was established and examined by specialist forensic officers, who determined the fire was deliberately lit.
Detectives attached to North Shore Police Area Command conducted initial inquiries, before the Financial Crimes Squad’s Arson Unit took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Lenghwise.
As inquiries continue, strike force investigators have released CCTV footage of a man who they believe may be able to assist with their inquiries.
The man, dressed in dark clothing, can be seen on Cliff Road a short time before and after the fire started.
Strike force investigators are also urging anyone who may have any dashcam footage from vehicles driving along or parked on Cliff Road on Saturday 3 September to contact police.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Lenghwise investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
WHEN: 10am TODAY (Monday 12 September 2022)
WHERE: The Curtis Cheng Centre – NSW Police Headquarters
1 Charles Street, PARRAMATTA
WHO: Detective Chief Inspector Richard Puffett
Financial Crimes Squad’s Arson Unit Coordinator
