Man arrested after fire in Totnes destroys home

A man has been arrested after fire crews were called to a house fire Bridgewater Gardens in Totnes in the early hours. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Rescue Service (DSFRS) was called just after 5.45am on Monday, 28 October, to a bungalow fire at Bridgewater Gardens in Totnes. 

A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life later in the day, and remains in police custody. 

The scene - credit Totnes Fire Station 

A spokesperson for Totnes Fire Station said: "Early this morning at 5:45 AM, Totnes fire crews were dispatched to a serious house fire where residents were initially unaccounted for. On arrival, firefighters found the street filled with heavy smoke and a house fully engulfed in flames, with fire breaking through windows and the roof.

"With support from Paignton Fire Station and Torquay Fire Station, multiple BA (Breathing Apparatus) teams worked to attack the fire, search for residents, and prevent the spread to nearby properties.

"The intensity of the blaze led to a roof collapse during the operation.

"The Incident Commander requested additional appliances, bringing the total to five, which came from Brixham Fire Station and the second appliance from Paignton. In total, six BA teams using hose reels, thermal imaging cameras, and small tools were deployed.

"Though the property was completely destroyed, we’re grateful to report there were no casualties. By 10.30am, all crews except one had returned to service their kit and prepare for the next call, with Totnes crews revisiting later to confirm no hotspots remained.

"Our thanks to the residents of the affected area for their patience during this incident."

Photos from the house - credit Totnes Fire Station 

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Emergency services attended a report of fire at two neighbouring properties at around 7am on 28 October. The cause of the fire is believed to be suspicious, and enquiries remain ongoing.

"A 37-year-old man from Totnes was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He has been released on police bail until 19 November.

"Anyone who may be able to help with inquiries has been asked to contact Devon and Cornwall Police quoting log 108 of 28/10/24."

A spokesperson for DSFRS said: "On arrival the bungalow was fully involved in fire, with the roof having collapsed into the building. The bungalow next door had smoke in the loft space.

"Crews extinguished the fire using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets and remain at the scene to dampen down any hotspots.

"There are no injuries reported."