Police probe suspicious fire which destroyed 42 cars at Macleay Valley Automotive on Angus McNeil Crescent, Kempsey
The owners of a Mid-North Coast auto business say they are devastated after a “suspicious” fire gutted more than 40 vehicles – many belonging to customers. See the video and pictures.
Mid-North Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Mid-North Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A “suspicious” fire has torn through an automotive business in Kempsey, destroying more than 40 vehicles and leaving the owners devastated.
Emergency services were called to Macleay Valley Automotive on Angus McNeil Crescent about 4.30pm on Sunday.
Business owners Deanne Mitchell and her son Gianni Rigoni took in the devastation on Monday afternoon.
Mr Rigoni said several grass fires were lit behind the shop in the hours leading up to the devastating inferno – one on Saturday night, another just before 6am on Sunday and then the third – “the one that got us”.
The family has operated the South Kempsey business for 15 years and employs eight people.
Out of the 40 cars and two trailers destroyed, 25 belonged to customers and were in different stages of repair.
“We won’t be able to put a figure on the damage for a while yet – we don’t know what’s insured and what’s not,” Ms Mitchell said.
After a sleepless night, Ms Mitchell was back at the office taking calls and trying to figure out what to do next.
“It’s a wonder I am not asleep right now, but at least the fire didn’t get to the office,” she said.
Ms Mitchell said she was “devastated” and angry.
“I hope the police get to the people responsible before I do,” she said.
No injuries have been reported as a result of the incident.
Mid North Coast Police District officers attended and set up a crime scene after the fire.
An investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the blaze, which police have deemed “suspicious”.
Investigators have urged anyone with information or dashcam footage of the area at the time to come forward.
Know more? Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Disgraced horse trainer fights sentence for teen sex assaults
The disgraced Gloucester horse trainer who was previously convicted on more than 20 sexual assault charges, has attempted to appeal his 14-year jail sentence.
Read more
‘Thank you Sydney’: Clover set for 6th term; ‘protest’ vote dominates
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore will continue her reign over the Harbour City after being re-elected for a historic sixth term. It comes as a huge informal ‘protest’ vote has dominated several councils.
Read more