By Rebecca Peppiatt
A bushfire in Perth’s south-east has been downgraded overnight with police now investigating whether the fire was deliberately lit.
A fire was reported in the area at 12.30pm on Friday and an emergency warning later issued with over 160 firefighters working through the night to contain the blaze.
Bushfire emergency in Bedfordale.Credit: Nine News Perth
Authorities advised just before 5pm that it was no longer safe to leave the emergency warning area.
Admiral Road and Springfield Road are now open.
On Saturday WA Police said Strike Force Vulcan officers are now investigating the cause of the blaze.
“About 12.30pm, Department of Fire and Emergency Services were called to the fire in bushland in the vicinity of Albany Highway, Springfield and Stephens Roads in Bedfordale,” a police spokesperson said.
A bushfire is currently out of control in Perth’s south-east.Credit: Nine News Perth
“The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds. The fire threatened homes and people, with evacuations taking place.
“The cause of the fire is being treated as suspicious.”
A bushfire advice warning is still in place for surrounding areas.
The fire follows another emergency-level blaze in the City of Swan on Tuesday that razed more than 500 hectares of land, caused a mass evacuation, came dangerously close to homes and claimed outbuildings as well as a historic building.
Authorities implored West Australians to create fire plans at the start of this month, predicting an unprecedented extension of the south-west’s bushfire season throughout autumn.
Police ask anyone with information to report it via Crime Stoppers on on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au.
Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.
For the latest information, visit Emergency WA, call 13 DFES, follow DFES on Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.
Read more
Tom Jones stuns Kings Park audience by diving into darkness and death
Squatters, a million-dollar Northbridge heritage home and a missing owner
Family confronts alleged Perth investment scammer in first court appearance