Crystal Palace train arsonist wanted by police (From Croydon Guardian)

Crystal Palace train arsonist wanted by police

11:18am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Local news By Nick Hitchens

A man who deliberately started a fire on a train carriage is wanted by police.

Investigators from British Transport Police have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the incident on a train between Crystal Palace and Norwood Junction.

A man seen pushing a bike, boarded the train at South Bermonsey just after midnight Thursday February 2.

He is then seen deliberately lighting a pile of newspapers, filling the carriage with smoke, scorching four seats and putting the train out of service.

The man, who left the train at Norwood Junction, is described as white, of stocky build and with a shaved head.

He was wearing a yellow high-visibility jacket and red shorts.

He attempted to cover his face with a grey snood and was also carrying a JD sports bag.

Detective Sergeant Shazia Moran, the investigating officer, said: “It’s very fortunate that the carriage was empty at the time and that no one was injured as a result. This man’s behaviour was reckless, irresponsible and highly dangerous.

“Pointless vandalism like this costs thousands of pounds in repairs but, aside from the financial implications, there is also the fact that incidents like this mean trains being taken out of service, affecting passengers as a result.

“If you recognise the man pictured in the CCTV images, please get in touch.”

A spokesman for Southern said: “Apart from endangering lives through this reckless behaviour, the train was taken out of service depriving commuters of much-needed seats.

“These crystal clear on-board CCTV images identify this man beyond any doubt and we hope that those who recognise him will come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B2/LSA of 09/02/12.