Dorset arson attack: A DOZEN cars set on fire overnight as police hunt suspect
More than a dozen cars were set on fire in Dorset
@Madame__Cerise
A dozen cars were set on fire overnight in Dorset in what is being treated as an arson attack.
Dorset Fire & Rescue Service received approximately 65 emergency calls after 12 vehicles were set alight in Wimborne and Poole between 11.30pm on Sunday and 2.30am on Monday, May 15.
One of the fires is thought to have spread to a nearby property, with the fire service working overnight to put out the fires.
The locations with reported incidents were Wentworth Drive, Oakley Hill, Oakley Road, Merley Ways, Stour Walk, New Borough Road, Grove Road and Leigh Road.
Dorset Police said its officers are "making every effort to identify those responsible".
The police are now carrying out a door-by-door investigation to try and find out more information about what happened overnight.
Detective Sergeant Simon Austin, of County CID, said: "These incidents have affected a large number of victims in the wider Wimborne area and we are aware that this will cause concern.
"I would like to reassure our local communities that officers are currently investigating all reported incidents and are making every effort to identify those responsible.
Multiple cars on the same street were set alight
@Madame__Cerise
Residents looked on in horror as they observed the scene
@Madame__Cerise
"People will see visible police activity as officers are making house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.
"We are appealing for any witnesses to any of the incidents or anyone who might have seen suspicious activity in the roads mentioned to please come forward.
"Also, I would urge anyone who may have home CCTV installed in those areas and anyone with dashcam to please check their footage to see if there is anything of relevance that could help us.
"Additional neighbourhood officers will be in the area who can be approached for advice and support."
On video circulating on social media shows a number of cars on the same street on fire.
Locals gathered outside their houses as they watch on in horror.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230073977.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.