Hunt for arsonist after Audi set on fire on drive

Police said the incident could have been much worse as the fire spread to a property

Police are looking for a man who fled the scene after deliberately setting a car on fire on a driveway in Plymouth.

An Audi Q2 burst into flames after an accelerant was poured over it at a home in Henry Avent Gardens, Elburton, at about 02:00 BST on 23 September, officers said.

The car was destroyed and the blaze spread to the house, causing substantial smoke and fire damage, Devon and Cornwall Police said.

Officers said the occupants noticed the fire in time and evacuated from the house before anyone was hurt.

Appeal for witnesses

Police said: "Thankfully no-one was injured and the fire was put out quickly, however, as the car was parked close to the house this could have been much more serious.

"We are treating this incident as arson and would like to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious at the time."

Detectives are looking for a man who fled the scene in the direction of the nearby King George V Playing Fields.

The suspect was described as about 6ft tall, of slim to medium build, and wearing a dark jacket with the hood up and dark-coloured jeans or trousers.

Any witnesses or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage was asked to contact police.