Huge blaze at factory being treated as arson

A fire at a factory in Wakefield which sent smoke billowing across the city’s night sky is now being treated as arson.
Fire damage at Rawsons Mill, WakefieldFire damage at Rawsons Mill, Wakefield
Fire damage at Rawsons Mill, Wakefield

Firefighters from Wakefield, Ossett and Normanton were called to Rawson’s factory, on Portobello Road, at around 11.45pm on Sunday.

The blaze destroyed two lorries and four trailers parked in the factory’s yard and crews managed to limit damage to a nearby building.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It took crews around three hours to fully extinguish the fire, which police said is now being treated as arson following an investigation.

Insp Ian Williams, of Wakefield Central neighbourhood police team, said: “Following an investigation we are treating this incident as a suspected arson attack.

“The fire has led to a considerable loss for the company.

“There is a major investigation underway and I would urge anyone with any information about the incident or saw anyone acting suspicious around the site around the time of the fire to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should contact Wakefield Central neighbourhood policing team on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.