The Metropolitan Police has launched an urgent manhunt after a fire broke out at a house in North West London, releasing an image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the alleged arson.
Officers were first called to Lydford Road in Maida Hill by a resident who reported a disturbance on the curb outside. When police arrived, they could not find anyone.
Later that morning, just before 5am, calls came in to both police and the London Fire Brigade about a fire at the same house. A man was inside at the time but thankfully was not injured.
Investigation and Appeal
Police spoke to locals and reviewed CCTV footage as part of their investigation. They are now appealing to the public to help identify the man pictured.
Detective Constable Lucy Kirkby, leading the Met's investigation, said: "This was a deeply concerning incident which could have had far more serious consequences.
"Since the launch of the investigation, our team has worked relentlessly to examine all available evidence and identify those responsible. I am now appealing directly to the public for their support.
"Do you know or recognise the man in the picture? Were you in the Lydford Road, Walterton Road or Fernhead Road area during the early hours of Saturday, 18 July? Did you see anyone acting suspiciously, or do you have any CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or other footage that could assist our investigation?
"If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward."
How to Help
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference CAD1532/18JUL26. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Residents in the area are urged to check any CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage they may have from the early hours of 18 July. The investigation remains ongoing.
