Cause of devastating Stourbridge fires that forced people from their homes confirmed after investigation
The fire service has now confirmed that neither blaze was started deliberately
Two fires which rapidly escalated into a major incident in Stourbridge both started accidentally in fields where agricultural machinery was being used, investigators have confirmed.
West Midlands Fire Service has revealed the findings of its investigation into the devastating fires which broke out on Thursday, August 13, causing widespread damage and leaving residents facing the task of rebuilding homes and lives.
Firefighters were first alerted to a blaze in a field near Racecourse Lane at around 1.27pm.
A second fire broke out shortly afterwards in a field near Quarry Park Road and Worcester Lane.
Specialist fire investigators from West Midlands Fire Service, working alongside West Midlands Police, have established that farming equipment was being used in the vicinity of both fields immediately before the fires were reported.
The fire service has now confirmed that neither blaze was started deliberately.
Chief fire officer Simon Tuhill said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, whether directly or indirectly, by events on 13 August in Stourbridge and beyond.
“Many people in Stourbridge face having to rebuild homes and lives and, understandably, have questions as part of that process.
“That’s why we are confirming that both fires were not started deliberately. They were accidental.
“I know that many are still struggling to comprehend the scale of damage and personal loss. I’m also acutely aware that this information will not bring those back homes, livelihoods or cherished memories.”
Mr Tuhill praised firefighters, staff and officers who worked in challenging conditions to protect people and property as the incident escalated.
He also thanked police and ambulance crews, members of the farming community who helped during the emergency, and residents, businesses and community groups who rallied around those affected.
He added: “The response to this incident showed the very best of Stourbridge and the wider West Midlands.
“While investigations continue into the full circumstances of what happened, we wanted to share this latest update as soon as possible.
“I hope it will go some way towards helping people understand what happened on that exceptionally hot and challenging day.”
Investigations into the full circumstances surrounding the fires are continuing.
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