Arsonist targets block of flats in Wembley with sleeping families inside

The hunt is on to find the arsonist who torched a small block of flats in Wembley while several families were asleep inside.

The occupants of the property at 681-685 Harrow Road were woken up by an explosion and managed to escape with their lives during the attack between midnight and 1am.

Police told the Times the attack could have claimed lives if it wasn’t for the quick actions of the residents.

The attack took place on February 16 but its details have been made public today in an appeal for information.

DC Louise Aré, investigating officer told the Times: “The fire was clearly caused deliberately by the suspect(s) with the intention of harming the residents at the address.

“Had it not of been for the immediate actions by the residents this could have been fatal.”

Anyone with information should contact Brent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.