Investigators probe Central Coast inferno that destroyed 16 homes, rule out signs of deliberate ignition
Specialist fire investigators say there is no evidence the Koolewong bushfire, which destroyed 16 homes and damaged 23 more, was deliberately lit, as they continue piecing together how the devastating blaze began.
Specialist fire investigators are still working to determine what sparked the catastrophic Koolewong bushfire, which destroyed 16 homes and damaged a further 23 on the Central Coast last week.
Strike Force Inola was set up by local police on December 6 to investigate the blaze, with support from the State Crime Command’s Arson Squad, Forensic Evidence Technical Support Command, and fire specialists from the NSW RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW.
The investigation, being conducted on behalf of the State Coroner, is focused on identifying the cause and origin of the fire, which tore through the Koolewong community in extreme conditions.
As of Wednesday, investigators believe the fire likely started in bushland off Nimbin Ave, but say the exact cause remains undetermined.
Crucially, forensic examinations at the suspected ignition point have found no evidence of ignitable liquids or any deliberate act, effectively ruling out early fears of arson.
Further analysis indicates a second fire reported near Koolewong Railway Station was a “spot fire” thrown from the original Nimbin Ave blaze.
Police and fire specialists have now completed scene examinations of all affected homes and confirmed the area is no longer being treated as an active crime scene.
Detectives are continuing to collect CCTV, footage and witness accounts to build a clearer picture of the fire’s movements and origins.
A secure community portal has been launched for residents to upload any recordings that may assist the investigation.
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