Police release image of ‘person of interest’ into alleged Western Downs arson spree which destroyed 14 homes

Police have revealed a major update in their investigation into an alleged arson spree that destroyed 14 homes and over 4600ha of land.

Police have released an image of a person of interest as they investigate an alleged arson spree that destroyed 14 homes and 4600ha of land on Queensland’s Western Downs.

An image of a vehicle of interest was also released.

Twelve suspicious fires were let in bushland near Tara and Wieambilla between January and April.

The fires destroyed 14 homes, a number of vehicles and other structures and several people were treated for smoke inhalation.

A man police wish to locate over the Western Downs fires

Seven fires were deliberately lit between January 29 and January 30, one fire on February 4, one fire on February 12 and three small fires on April 17.

The fire on February 12 resulted in an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act, with local police assisting with evacuating local residents and animals.

Thirteen homes were lost in that fire, which continued to burn for several days, with the emergency declaration remaining in place until February 14.

Police say the “extensive” Operation Victor Ministry investigations indicate an early 90s model white Toyota LandCruiser utility was observed near several of the fires.

Police are also seeking an early ’90s model white Toyota LandCruiser utility that was observed near several of the fires.

A police statement also revealed an image detectives believe to be this vehicle, with a distinctive metal frame visible on the utility’s tray.

Along with the computer generated image of the man police describe him as in his late 40s, 175cm tall with a proportionate build, fair complexion and grey hair and beard.

In an earlier release police said they believe the person or persons involved in the arsons may reside in the Wieambilla area.

The Courier-Mail in March spoke to volunteer firefighters who said they were concerned for their safety while moving through remote properties, after the fatal ambush of two police officers and a neighbour in December 2022.

Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath said it is extremely lucky no one was seriously injured in the fires.

“Deliberately lighting a bushfire can have catastrophic consequences, both to individuals and in the community,” he said.

“Bushfires are a natural occurrence which play an important role in the sustainability of our environment – however the intentional starting of bushfires poses a significant risk to the public including the threat to life, property, the environment and wildlife.”

“We urge anyone who has information, no matter how small, to come forward and help us put those responsible before the court.”

Originally published as Police release image of ‘person of interest’ into alleged Western Downs arson spree which destroyed 14 homes