Pictured: Arsonist moments before BMW goes up in flames

Caught on camera, this person was seen placing something underneath a BMW in York before setting it on fire.

Detectives have issued the still from CCTV footage following the act of arson which destroyed the car and could have had “potentially devastating consequences”.

The car fire, on Tudor Road, Acomb, was reported to the police shortly after 12.50am on Tuesday (October 14) by York firemen, who were dealing with the blaze.

After the incident, the person responsible is seen on CCTV heading towards Hamilton Drive.

The BMW 3 series was completely destroyed and a Citroen Berlingo and a Mazda were damaged in the fire. The front of the house was also damaged.

“The act of arson took place very close to the house where people were sleeping. This fire could easily have led to potentially devastating consequences,” said Detective Sergeant Mark Jackson, of York CID.

“If you recognise the person captured on camera, or saw someone matching their description in the Tudor Road, Gale Lane or Middleton Road areas around the time of the fire, I urge you to contact the police immediately.

“I am also keen to speak to anyone who works at local garages who may have sold fuel to someone filling a petrol can, and ask them to get in touch straight away.”

Anyone who can help should contact York CID on 101, select option 2 and ask for the department by name. Or email information to [email protected].

Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference number 12140177124.