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Large Fire Causes Extensive Damage to Flats in Cardiff
A significant fire in Grangetown has left a family of five devastated after their home was completely destroyed while they were on holiday. The incident occurred at Seager Drive during the early hours of Saturday morning.
The family, who were staying in Saundersfoot, were alerted to several missed calls upon waking. The father, speaking anonymously, expressed gratitude for their absence, stating, “We were so lucky we went to Saundersfoot on Thursday.” He explained that they had left their phones on silent and received between 30 and 40 missed calls by 6am.
Upon returning home around 8am, they found their flat severely damaged and were informed that it was unsafe to enter. The family noted that while the front of the building appeared largely untouched, extensive damage was evident at the rear, particularly affecting the upstairs rooms.
The father lamented the loss of many personal items, including his children’s baby memorabilia, wedding attire, and cherished decorations. He stated, “Everything belonging to my children and wife was upstairs,” emphasising the emotional toll of the loss.
South Wales Police confirmed that a 46-year-old man from Cardiff has been arrested on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. Following the arrest, police stated the man has since been released on bail.
Firefighters from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service responded to the fire around 4am, successfully preventing it from spreading further. The father of the family praised the emergency services for their efforts, stating they salvaged some items of sentimental value despite the extensive damage.
Currently, the displaced family is residing in temporary hotel accommodation and is seeking a more permanent solution, with plans to move into an Airbnb-type property soon.
