Police and fire investigating arson at Waiblingen Way, Devizes after nine people injured

Police are now investigating the blaze which broke out at Waiblingen Way just after 1am.

Around 35 fire fighters tackled the blaze who were joined at the scene by the ambulance service.

A police spokesman said: "The fire is believed to have started in a communal area.

"At this stage, we believe nine people have been injured as a result of the fire, including one woman who has suffered serious injuries. She is currently being treated at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon and is in a critical condition.

"The fire was extinguished by 2.25am and a joint investigation with the fire service and Wiltshire Police has now begun to determine the cause of the fire.

Det Insp Helen Jacobs said: “Although we are very much at the early stages of our investigation, we are treating this incident as arson and we will be conducting multiple enquiries today to identify the exact circumstances.

“If you witnessed any suspicious activity in the Waiblingen Way area before 1am this morning, you may be able to help with our enquiries so please do get in touch.”

A fire service spokesman said: "At approx 1.08am this morning (17th December 2019) fire control operators received the first of numerous calls to report a fire in a block of flats in Waiblingen Way, Devizes.

"Firefighters from Devizes (x2), Melksham, Calne, Trowbridge (x2) and Chippenham attended this incident, approximately 35 firefighters.

"Control room staff were able to give fire survival guidance to multiple callers and guide firefighters to those properties where residents were trapped or unable to evacuate. Firefighters were then able to rescue multiple occupants from their flats.

"Crews extinguished the fire by 2.25am. A joint investigation with Wiltshire Police, into the cause of the fire, has begun."

Call 101 and quote log number 13 of December 17.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.