Sydney Home Targeted in Suspected Arson Attempt Amid Organized Crime Probe
A threatening message and petrol were found outside a Sydney family home shortly before an alleged arson attempt, prompting an investigation into potential organized crime links.
Police are investigating a suspected arson attempt at a family home in Sydney's inner west after a threatening message was spray-painted on the driveway and the area was doused with petrol. The incident occurred just before 3:30 a.m. on Saturday at a property on Weddle Avenue in Abbotsford.
Emergency services responded to reports of malicious damage and discovered the scene, which included the spray-painted message, petrol, and other items. Witnesses told officers they saw two individuals fleeing the scene in a 4WD vehicle. A neighbor's shout reportedly caused the suspects to abandon their attempt. The threatening message scrawled on the driveway read: "Junkie dog. Don't run your mouth."
Authorities are exploring potential connections between this incident and tensions within Sydney's underworld crime network. Acting Inspector Denis Dreon described the attempted arson as "extremely brazen" and stated that police are intensifying their response to ensure community safety.
A crime scene has been established and will undergo forensic examination. The investigation is also examining any links to a house fire that occurred approximately two doors down on the same street about 4 a.m. on Tuesday.
In the Tuesday incident, emergency services found a home engulfed in flames. Firefighters used a ladder to rescue an 88-year-old woman who was trapped on a second-story balcony. Neighboring houses were evacuated, and the affected home was destroyed. Four occupants were treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation, and a 17-year-old boy involved in the fire sustained severe burns.
Anyone with information regarding either incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.