Arson is now being suspected as the cause of the devastating fire that engulfed the Dunelm store in Yeovil on Sunday, August 25. This development comes after reports surfaced that CCTV footage captured two females setting fire to a bench outside the store shortly before the blaze broke out.
The fire, which erupted around 6 p.m., caused significant damage to the popular home furnishings store, with large sections of the roof engulfed in flames. Fortunately, the store had already closed for the day, and no injuries were reported. However, the incident has left the future of the store—and the broader town centre—in doubt.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the CCTV footage shows the two suspects lighting a bench on fire outside the store. The flames from the bench are believed to have spread, ultimately causing the major blaze that severely damaged the building. Avon and Somerset Police, who were already involved in the initial response to the fire, are now treating the incident as a potential arson attack and are actively seeking information on the two individuals seen in the footage according to sources who operate the Quedam centre.
Yeovil's Premier Used Car Dealership
The revelation of a possible arson attack has shocked the local community, with many expressing concern and outrage over the senseless destruction. The Dunelm store was a vital part of Yeovil’s town centre, attracting numerous visitors and supporting the local economy. The possibility that the fire was deliberately set has only heightened the community's anxiety about the store's future and the broader implications for the town.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The police are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area around the time of the fire or who may have additional footage that could aid in identifying the suspects.
In the meantime, the town waits anxiously to learn whether Dunelm will be able to reopen or if the suspected arson attack will leave a permanent scar on Yeovil's town centre.