A stolen car was torched just yards from a children’s playground in the early hours of the morning.
Police have started an investigation into both the theft of the car and the arson attack in Hangleton Park at about 1am yesterday (Tuesday 19 September).
Video footage shows firefighters trying to control the blaze on the grass opposite the flats in Harmsworth Crescent and close to Hangleton Community Centre.
Sussex Police said that no one was injured but the fire was being treated as deliberate.
The car has now been removed but shards of broken glass remain scattered around the scorched dirt area in the park today, with nearby residents warning dog owners to be careful on social media.
Residents reported hearing a “loud pop” at around 1am on yesterday.
Police are urging anyone with information or footage to contact them.
Sussex Police said: “Emergency services attended Harmsworth Crescent, Hove, at around 12.30am on Tuesday 19 September following a report of a car on fire.
“The fire was extinguished and no injuries were reported.
“The fire is being treated as deliberate and initial inquiries have identified the car as stolen. The owner has been notified.
“Inquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible and anyone with any information or relevant footage is asked to report online or via 101 quoting 023 of 19/09.”
East Sussex Fire and Rescue said: “We were called to Harmsworth Crescent at 12.17am to a car on fire.
“Firefighters from Hove wore breathing apparatus and extinguished the fire with a hose reel jet.”
That’s terrible. Think of the poor children playing in the playground in the small hours of the morning…
… oh, hang on.
You might want to consider the damage to the ground, the risk of broken glass, and the intimidation factor of feeling unsafe from this incident.
The glass was the issue! Plus fuel that was leaked,its a popular playground plus dogs being walked in the area!