Person of interest sought over suspicious North Lyneham house fire

Officers wish to identify this man in relation to a house fire investigation. Photo: ACT Policing.

Police have released a face-fit image of a man they wish to speak with over a suspicious house fire earlier this year.

Emergency services were called to a house fire on Cossington Smith Crescent, North Lyneham, at about 2:45 am on 26 March 2023.

Investigations have led to the creation of the image of man police have identified as a person of interest in relation to the blaze.

He’s described as being of Caucasian appearance and aged in his 40s, with a fair complexion, short brown hair, and brown eyes.

ACT Policing Detective Acting Inspector Matt Innes said the fire caused significant emotional and financial hardship to the owner of the home.

“The fire completely destroyed this house, causing approximately $700,000 worth of damage. The consequences of this incident could have been much worse had anyone been inside the home at the time,” he said.

“This is a serious incident, a dangerous incident, and it is important that those responsible are brought before the court.

“If you are the person in the face-fit – contact us. And we urge anyone else that has information about this incident to come forward.”

Information can be reported via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting reference 7387444. Information can be provided anonymously.