The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Probe after ‘reckless’ blaze razes landmark
A“You could literally feel the heat coming off the building – it’s a total goner
huge blaze which ripped through a landmark building in Dundee city centre has been described by police as “a reckless and dangerous act of fireraising”.
Officers are appealing for information after a fire engulfed the former Robertson’s furniture store on Barrack Street.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service rushed nine appliances to the incident around 6pm on Saturday night.
Police closed a number of neighbouring streets.
Officers, who believe the fire was started deliberately, say they are following “a number of lines of inquiry” to identify the culprits.
There have been no reported casualties.
Detective Sergeant Stuart Martin, from Dundee CID, said: “This was a reckless and dangerous act of fireraising, which has caused significant damage and disruption to the area.
“We have spoken with a number of witnesses and would appeal for anyone with information to come forward and assist our inquiries.”
Roads in the area, including North Lindsay Street, South Ward Road and Bank Street, were closed in the aftermath of the fire.
Large plumes of smoke and flames could be seen from all around Dundee and across the water in Newport-on-Tay.
An eye-witness said: “The building looks like it’s been totally destroyed in the fire – I can’t believe how big it is.
“There were at least seven fire appliances all around the building and lots of police.
“The flames were just not giving up, there were a few explosions among it as well.
“You could literally feel the heat coming off the building, it’s a total goner.
“There were a lot of people standing about watching the fire on the street behind the building but police eventually moved everyone on and closed off the entire area.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “Operations Control mobilised nine appliances and specialist resources to the scene where firefighters worked throughout the night to extinguish the fire.
“There were no reported casualties.”
Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting incident 2800 of November 12. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.