Fresh Appeal: CCTV Images Released in Lake Macquarie Arson Investigation

newy.com.au – Authorities in Lake Macquarie have intensified investigations into a suspected arson attack that severely damaged a council building late last year, releasing CCTV footage in a fresh appeal for public assistance.

Emergency services were called to Main Road, Speers Point, at around 3:50 am on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, after reports of a fire. Fire and Rescue NSW crews worked to extinguish the blaze, but the building sustained extensive damage. Officers from the Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene, and Strike Force Komiatum was launched to investigate the incident.

Detectives have now released CCTV images of a dark grey utility vehicle spotted in the area at the time of the fire. Investigations have also confirmed that two individuals were in the vicinity of the council building during the incident, raising suspicions about their involvement.

This development follows an earlier appeal in September 2024, when police sought information about deliberately lit bushfires in Redhead and Killingworth. Those fires, which scorched several hectares of bushland, also involved reports of a suspicious vehicle seen near one of the scenes. While it remains unclear if the events are connected, police continue to investigate both cases thoroughly.

Lake Macquarie Police are urging anyone who recognises the vehicle or has CCTV or dashcam footage from the Speers Point area on the morning of the fire to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. Information can be provided confidentially.