Cops hunting Crystal Palace train arsonist (From News Shopper)

Cops hunting Crystal Palace train arsonist

11:40am Saturday 11th February 2012 in News By Robert Fisk

DETECTIVES are hunting an arsonist who ‘endangered lives’ by setting fire to a pile of newspapers on a moving train.

He deliberately set the papers alight before adding more to the burning pile as smoke billowed through the carriage as the train travelled between Crystal Palace and Norwood Junction.

The blaze scorched four seats and meant the train was taken out of service.

British Transport Police says the man boarded the Southern service at South Bermondsey just after midnight on February 2, pushing a bike, and got off at Norwood Junction.

He is described as being white, of stocky build and with a shaved head and was wearing a yellow high-visibility jacket and red shorts.

During the train journey he attempted to cover his face with a grey snood and was also carrying a JD sports bag.

BTP detectives have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the incident.

And investigating officer Detective Sergeant Shazia Moran said: “It’s very fortunate that the carriage was empty at the time and that no one was injured as a result.

“This man’s behaviour was reckless, irresponsible and highly dangerous.

“Pointless vandalism like this costs thousands of pounds in repairs but, aside from the financial implications, there is also the fact that incidents like this mean trains being taken out of service, affecting passengers as a result.

“If you recognise the man pictured in the CCTV images, please get in touch.”

A spokesman for Southern said: “Apart from endangering lives through this reckless behaviour, the train was taken out of service depriving commuters of much-needed seats.

“These crystal clear on-board CCTV images identify this man beyond any doubt and we hope that those who recognise him will come forward.”

Anyone who recognises the man pictured in the CCTV images is asked to call the BTP on 0800 405040 quoting reference B2/LSA of 09/02/12.