Sydney Arsonist Sets Himself Ablaze in Shocking Video

DDM News

A man attempting to set fire to a Sydney hair salon accidentally set himself ablaze in a botched arson attack, with the shocking incident captured on surveillance footage and released by police.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the video was made public on Monday, July 7, by New South Wales (NSW) Police, who are appealing to the public for help identifying the individuals involved.

Detective Acting Superintendent Luke Scott described the culprits as “a danger to the community and a danger to themselves” during a press conference addressing the incident.

The arson attempt occurred in the early hours of June 13, at a salon located in Burwood, a suburb of Sydney.

CCTV footage shows two men forcing entry into the closed business and dousing the interior with a flammable liquid.

As they prepare to flee, one of the men, believed to be the one who lit the fire, accidentally sets himself on fire when a massive fireball erupts at the entrance.

In a separate camera angle from Nicholl Lane, the man can be seen running while completely engulfed in flames.

While the exact extent of the arsonist’s injuries remains unknown, the footage has led police to believe that he suffered significant burns.

“It’s quite clear when you watch this CCTV, we are not dealing with professionals,” Detective Scott remarked.

“We’re dealing with amateurs who are lucky they didn’t kill someone, or themselves.”

Emergency crews from Fire and Rescue New South Wales responded to the blaze around 5 a.m.

Residents of the building above the salon were evacuated for safety.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the residents, and the salon sustained only minor damage.

Still, police are treating the fire as suspicious and continue to investigate the motive behind the attempted arson.

Authorities are urging members of the public to report any information that could lead to the identification of the suspects.

“If you know someone who mysteriously suffered burns on or around June 13, or anyone you suspect may have been involved, please come forward,” Scott added.

The incident has sparked online debate, with many social media users criticizing the recklessness of the perpetrators and praising the salon’s sturdy fire safety system, which likely prevented greater disaster.

As of now, no arrests have been made, and the NSW Police Force has urged anyone with relevant tips to contact Crime Stoppers immediately.

The CCTV footage has since gone viral, further amplifying calls for increased safety around commercial properties and stiffer penalties for attempted arson.

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