TERRIFIED residents and children were evacuated after a van packed with fireworks was set alight by a yob.
The vehicle erupted into flames in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
A van packed with fireworks was set alight by a yob[/caption]
Terrified residents and children were evacuated[/caption]
Shocked locals also hit out at those behind the attack[/caption]
Locals were rushed from their homes and roads closed as firefighters battled to bring the blaze under control.
Footage posted online shows fireworks exploding from the van as flames took hold while deafening bangs led residents to label the scene a ‘war zone’.
No one was injured during the blaze which took place around 1am on the town’s Braes Avenue.
A suspect was seen making off and police are appealing for information to trace him.
He is described as white, in his 30s, of slim build with a shaved head and was wearing a dark-coloured hooded jacket with dark-coloured bottoms.
In a post online, Clydebank East Community Council said: “Disgusting behaviour in Braes Avenue in the early hours.
“A van deliberately set on fire while containing boxes of fireworks, absolutely no regard for the kids living in these houses.
“I’ve never witnessed anything like it, kids screaming in sheer terror. Absolutely awful. Thankfully everyone is safe.
“Should anyone wish to speak to the anti-social behaviour team they will be at our next meeting on Monday 3rd March at 7pm in Centre 81.”
They added: “The van was parked on a driveway in between two blocks of houses.
“The van was targeted and had boxes of fireworks inside.
“Thankfully no one was physically injured and eventually got back into their homes, it was horrific.”
Councillor Lauren Oxley said: “Absolutely shocking, hope everyone is alright and isn’t too shaken up. I’ve written to the council and police for some further information and to ask what action is being taken because clearly the current patrols aren’t enough.”
Marie McNair MSP added: “Disgusting behaviour. Hope everyone is okay.”
Shocked locals also hit out at those behind the attack.
One said: “Thought we were in a war zone last night, so glad no one was hurt.”
Another posted: “Why would people do a thing like that? Do they have no regard for others? Someone could have been really hurt.”
Detective Constable Andrew Baldacci, Clydebank CID, said: “I’m appealing for anyone who has information about this man, or the man himself, to come forward.
“I’d also ask anyone who saw what happened or has any information about the incident and has not already spoken to police, to contact us.
“Similarly, if you have private CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from the area, please review this and bring anything of significance to our attention.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 12.56am on Sunday, February 23, to reports of a vehicle fire on Braes Avenue in Whitecrook, Clydebank.
“Operations Control mobilised two fire appliances to the scene, and firefighters extinguished the fire affecting one van which was well alight.
“There were no casualties, and the crews left the scene at 2.19am after ensuring the area was made safe.”
Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference number 0246 of 23 February or alternatively phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
