Man arrested after arson attack at Pateley Bridge petrol station

North Yorkshire Police have issued video surveillance of a man they want to speak to following an arson attack at The Dales Market petrol station in Pateley Bridge.

Between 1.45 a.m. and 2.45 a.m. yesterday (May 14), two men entered the forecourt of the gas station, placed a backpack there and set it on fire. The backpack then went out by itself.

Yesterday afternoon, officers arrested a 36-year-old man on suspicion of arson and property damage. He was interviewed and later released on bail.

Officials are now appealing to the public to contact us if they have any information that may assist the ongoing investigation, including being able to identify the man in the released images.

Detective Inspector Jill Cowling, from Harrogate Criminal Investigation Department, said: “We consider this incident to be premeditated and the investigation is ongoing. Luckily no one was injured but we will be increasing police operations in the area to provide additional safety for the public.

“As part of the ongoing police investigation, I am now appealing to everyone to become aware of any suspicious activity at the site during the night of Saturday 13th and the early hours of Sunday 14th May.”

Anyone with information is asked to email Jill.Cowling@northyorkshire.police.uk. Alternatively you can call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for Jill Cowling.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can provide information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

When passing on information, please quote the reference number 12230086186.