Arson Attack Confirmed as Cause of Fire That Devastated Former Primary School in Gorseinon
A devastating fire which gutted parts of a former school in Gorseinon, causing a roof to collapse, has been confirmed as an act of arson. Firefighters responded to the blaze at a derelict building that used to be the town’s junior school on Friday afternoon. The fire was initiated in an annex measuring approximately 15 metres by 30 metres, leading to a significant response with four fire engines on-site for hours in an attempt to prevent the fire from spreading to the main building of the site.
The extent of the damage was severe, with the roof of the annex collapsing due to the fire, rendering the entire site unsafe. The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service stated on Monday that the fire was deliberately started. A spokesperson from the fire service confirmed that multiple fire stations were involved in tackling the incident, deploying two hose reel jets, two main jets, two breathing apparatus sets, and small gear to extinguish the fire and contain it.
During the peak of the fire, the building was engulfed in flames, prompting warnings for residents to stay indoors, shut windows and doors, and turn off any air conditioning or ventilation systems. Motorists passing by the area were also advised to keep windows closed due to the heavy smoke emanating from the scene. The South Wales Police have been approached for comment regarding the incident.
This deliberate act of arson has caused significant damage to the former school building in Gorseinon, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire. The community is left shocked by this destructive incident, and authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of the area in the aftermath of this devastating event. The repercussions of such reckless actions are far-reaching and have impacted the local area profoundly.
As the investigation into the arson attack continues, the priority remains on assessing the structural integrity of the site and preventing any further risks to the surrounding community. The arson attack on the former primary school in Gorseinon serves as a stark reminder of the destructive consequences of such criminal acts, highlighting the need for vigilance and swift action to address and prevent such incidents in the future.