WA Police Arson Squad investigators have charged a 41-year-old man after their investigation into recent bushfires in Nedlands, Kings Park and West Perth.
It will be alleged about 2.10pm on 24 October 2023, the man used a mobile heat source to set fire to long grass on the verge adjacent to a nursing home on Williams Road in Nedlands.
It will be further alleged between 2.30pm and 3pm on 24 October 2023, the man again used a mobile heat source to set fire to bushland three times in the Kings Park Botanical Gardens.
About 2.45pm on 2 November 2023, it will be alleged the man was stationary halfway up Jacobs Ladder on Cliff Street, in West Perth when he set fire to set fire to vegetation close to the stairs of Jacobs Ladder.
The fire spread rapidly towards multi-million dollar homes due to wind direction and Department of Fire and Emergency Services quick response meant none of the homes were impacted.
Police apprehended the accused around 5.50pm opposite Jacobs Ladder near Mounts Bay Road in West Perth.
The 41-year-old of no fixed address is due to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court today, 3 November 2023, charged with:
• Five counts of Wilfully Light or Cause to be Lit a Fire Likely to Injure or Damage.
This offence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.
