Capalaba tobacco store fire: Man flees Redland crime scene after setting himself on fire
A tobacco store near Brisbane has been set alight, with a clumsy arsonist fleeing the scene after accidentally setting himself on fire.
PT Tobacco and Gift store on Finucane Road in Capalaba went up in flames on Thursday evening, while two people were inside the shop.
Emergency services were called as the pair frantically escaped the inferno.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.On arrival, crews managed to extinguish the blaze, and no injuries were reported.
After initial investigations, police identified a blue sedan that was seen fleeing the scene after the fire started, with flames seen coming out of the vehicle, as the arsonist had also set himself alight.
“Shortly after, a blue Mazda sedan was located on fire near Goodge Court, Birkdale, and was subsequently extinguished,” a Queensland Police spokesperson said.
Video of the firebug fleeing the incident was captured, showing the man driving inside a vehicle as flames engulfed the cabin and spilled from the windows.
Queensland Ambulance Services have not yet reported a patient presenting with burns.
“A crime scene remains at the Capalaba business, and investigations into both the fire and locating the driver of the Mazda are ongoing,” Queensland Police said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
