FOUR cars and a van were set on fire in what police believe was a targeted arson attack.

Police and the fire service were called to Teesdale Walk, in Shildon, County Durham, at around 9pm on Monday evening following reports that a number of vehicles were on fire.

The Northern Echo:

The vehicles that were damaged during the incident were a Peugeot Partner van, a Mercedes C220, two Suzuki Swifts and a Volkswagen Bora.

Witnesses reported seeing a black Vauxhall Astra leaving the street at speed shortly before the vehicles went up in flames.

The Northern Echo:

Officers investigating the arson believe it to be a targeted attack, Durham police have confirmed.

Temporary Inspector Alex Clarke, from Durham police, said: “We are treating this incident as arson and are carrying out a number of enquiries to trace those responsible.

“We believe this was a targeted attack and want to reassure the local community that we do not believe they are at risk.”

  • Anyone with any information on the incident is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 436 of February 11.