A 34-year-old man faces charges after a fire ravaged Fairways Business Park.
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A significant development has emerged in the investigation of a fire that severely impacted Fairways Business Park in Inverness. A 34-year-old man has been arrested and is scheduled to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court on Monday, May 5, facing charges of “wilful fire raising.” This incident has raised serious concerns within the community, prompting a thorough investigation by Police Scotland.
Details of the incident
The fire, which occurred on March 9, resulted in the destruction of four business units within the park. Eyewitness accounts describe a male suspect, clad in dark clothing and a balaclava, who allegedly drove a vehicle into the business park, igniting the blaze.
Following the act, the individual was seen fleeing the scene towards Walter Scott Drive, raising alarms among local residents.
Despite the arrest, authorities continue to pursue further inquiries to ensure all aspects of the incident are thoroughly investigated. Detective Inspector Caroline MacKay of Police Scotland expressed gratitude towards the local community for their cooperation during the ongoing investigation, highlighting the importance of community support in such critical situations.
Emergency response and community impact
The response to the fire was swift, with six fire crews dispatched to the scene to combat the “well-developed” blaze. Firefighters battled the flames for several hours, ultimately preventing further spread but unable to save several business units. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but the financial impact on local business owners has been significant.
Images captured during the incident reveal the extensive damage inflicted on the business park, with repairs still underway. The fire also caused collateral damage to nearby establishments, including the entranceway of Inverness’s Kart Raceway, which has since reopened. Other businesses, such as Harry Gow Bakery, SJ Travel Centre, Scottish Premium Seafood, and HFM hairdressers, were also affected, leaving many in the community concerned about the future of their livelihoods.
Community resilience and recovery efforts
In the aftermath of the fire, the resilience of the Inverness community has been put to the test. Local business owners are now faced with the daunting task of recovery and rebuilding. The fire has not only disrupted their operations but has also raised questions about safety and security in the area.
As investigations continue, the community remains hopeful for a swift resolution and justice for those affected. The support from local residents and businesses will be crucial in the recovery process, as they come together to rebuild and restore the vibrancy of Fairways Business Park.
