Children 'screaming in sheer terror' after van filled with fireworks set alight

Monday, 24 February 2025 14:37

By Jenness Mitchell, Scotland reporter

Children were said to be "screaming in sheer terror" after a van containing fireworks was deliberately torched in the middle of the night.

A number of homes were evacuated and roads closed after the vehicle fire and exploding fireworks sparked chaos in a West Dunbartonshire street.

Yvonne O'Neill, secretary of Clydebank East Community Council, branded it "disgusting behaviour".

Posting on social media, she added: "Absolutely no regard for the kids living in these houses.

"I've never witnessed anything like it - kids screaming in sheer terror. Absolutely awful. Thankfully everyone is safe."

Ms O'Neill told Sky News the community council has requested senior officers from Police Scotland to attend its meeting next Monday to address concerns about anti-social behaviour.

She said: "We've had trouble lately with youths setting bins on fire and stuff, but this is a different thing. This is adults.

"It was mayhem - with no regard to anybody."

Police Scotland said it was alerted to the wilful vehicle fire in Braes Avenue, Clydebank, at about 1am on Sunday.

The force confirmed there were "no reports of injuries", with the evacuations and road closures put in place "as a precaution" while fire crews extinguished the blaze.

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A man was seen fleeing in the direction of the nearby Forth and Clyde Canal path around the time of the incident.

He is described as white, in his 30s, and slim with a shaved head. The man was also wearing a dark-coloured hooded jacket and dark-coloured bottoms.

Detective Constable Andrew Baldacci said: "I'm appealing for anyone who has information about this man, or the man himself, to come forward.

"I'd also ask anyone who saw what happened or has any information about the incident, and has not already spoken to police, to contact us.

"Similarly, if you have private CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from the area, please review this and bring anything of significance to our attention."

Sky News