Bay View service station fire cause revealed: Petrol container accidentally ignited by cigarette lighter
The fire which destroyed the entire forecourt of the Main North Road BP petrol station in Bay View last night is believed to have been an accident, police say.
Eastern District Criminal Investigations Manager, Detective Inspector Rob Jones said preliminary enquiries have established a container of petrol was filled, placed inside a vehicle, and subsequently ignited by a flame from a cigarette lighter.
Jones said initial indications are that this was accidental. However, police will continue to review all facts in conjunction with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).
"It may take some time to establish the full chain of events. We have spoken to the people directly connected to this incident and they continue to assist with our enquiries.
"The investigation will continue today with the completion of a scene examination and review of CCTV footage from the service station once it is available."
Jones said the people connected to the fire, other customers, and BP employees were "extremely lucky".
"The entire service station forecourt was alight within minutes and it is nothing short of a miracle that nobody was injured or killed."
While the forecourt is extensively damaged, there is little or no damage to the main business premises itself.
Photo/Supplied.
"The positive actions of the BP staff at the time to respond quickly to an exceptionally dangerous situation made a significant difference to the outcome.
"We also want to acknowledge the quick and professional response by FENZ to manage the risks associated with this major incident and ensure the fire was contained within the large forecourt area," Jones said.
A BP spokesperson said: "Safety is always our top priority and staff acted quickly to evacuate the site before calling emergency services, who then managed the situation.
"Thankfully no one was injured. The site remains temporarily closed."
Anyone who has not yet come forward to speak with police is asked to contact 105 and quote file number 210116/6262.
Police are aware a number of videos have also been posted on social media. If anyone has a recording they believe could assist Police and FENZ with this on-going investigation, we would encourage them to contact Police 105 quote file number 210116/6262.
