Police were today investigating an arson attack in a high rise block which could have left ten people dead.
A 12 ft long trail of flammable liquid was poured from the staircase up to and against the door of a seventh floor home in Longbow flats, Sherwood Way, Southend.
Lucky - Nigel Burn in the corridor outside his flat Picture: ROB BROWNE
Firefighters said it was a clear case of arson which could have killed five families who were evacuated.
Assistant divisional officer Keith Baker said: "Whoever did this could have killed up to ten people including one baby and four children."
Resident Nigel Burn, 41, who fled his flat along with wife Carolina and son Daniel, eight, said: "It was extremely dangerous. The intercom door system hasn't worked for over a year. We feel like we are living in a death trap."
The ten terrified residents were taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
A spokeswoman for Southend Council said: "The area housing manager and the estate officer carried out a site visit. It is believed the fire was started deliberately and a full investigation will be carried out.
"The council will await the outcome of the full investigation before considering what further action it will take."
Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003
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