POLICE investigating a series of arson and vandal attacks in Fishponds have released CCTV pictures and video of someone they want to trace.
They say the suspect is a young white man, who “appears to have a distinctive walk”.
CCTV was captured on nights crimes were committed, including a car fire that spread to a house where three young children were asleep, in Oldbury Court Road on August 30, and a vandal attack on cars in River View on July 6.
Since then more arson attacks have taken place – the most recent one in the early hours of this morning, when a car was destroyed by fire in Oldbury Court Road at around 3.30am.
A day earlier, at about 2am on Wednesday, a car was set on fire in Grove Road.
The fire spread to a second vehicle and damaged the front door of a nearby house.
Detectives say they have linked several incidents which have happened in and around Fishponds in recent months.
The family evacuated from Oldbury Court Road issued a statement today, which said: “This mindless act of violence, has not only deeply impacted my family physically but emotionally.
“The support or our family, friends and community have allowed us to soldier on.
“We would like to thank the fire department and police for their efforts.”
Neighbourhood Inspector Luke Keenan said: “We understand and share people’s concerns, and the neighbourhood team has been supporting the investigation team with local enquiries as well as attending community meetings to discuss this and other issues. If you have any information or footage which you haven’t yet shared with us, please do get in touch.”
Anyone who recognises the person in the CCTV pictures, has dashcam or CCTV footage, or other information they think could help the investigation should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5225 244 743.
Moving CCTV footage can be viewed on the police website. It shows the suspect’s unusual walk, where his right knee appears to bend inwards.
Top picture: CCTV still from July 6, when cars were vandalised