Strike force investigating suspicious house fire on O’Hearn St, Tenambit

Detectives believe they are closing in on suspected arsonists responsible for two targeted attacks on a Tenambit home, the second one destroying the residence with two pet dogs inside.

Detectives believe they are closing in on suspected arsonists who targeted a Tenambit home twice in one night, the second attack destroying the residence with two pet dogs trapped inside.

A police strike force has been set up to investigate the targeting of the O’Hearn St house overnight in August.

Emergency services were first called to the home on the night of August 7 after a fire was lit near a kitchen window with at least one occupant home at the time.

Fire crews were quickly able to extinguish the fire before leaving. Investigating police also made some inquiries before moving on to other jobs.

A police strike force has been set up to investigate a house fire on O'Hearn St, Tenambit on August 9. Picture: Google Maps.

It is understood the resident decided to leave the home and spend the night at a friend’s house before emergency services were called back to the address about 12.15am the following morning after reports it was well alight.

The structure was completely destroyed and two pet dogs perished in the blaze.

Strike Force Gilgundry, comprised of Port Stephens-Hunter detectives, has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire,

Police have urged those with information to contact Maitland detectives or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.