Australian police question cop who caused forest fire catastrophe

Feb 8, 2011, 23:55 GMT

Sydney - Police in Western Australia have questioned the off-duty officer who allegedly caused the forest fire on Perth's outskirts that razed 72 homes and damaged 32 others.

Local media reported Wednesday that they were concerned for his welfare, after they visited his home to question him again but were unable to locate him.

The officer was reported to have been using an angle grinder outside his house on Sunday when sparks from the power tool ignited a grass fire that took off in the hot and blustery conditions.

Susan McWatters, who lost her home in the fire, said she hoped the man would not be charged.

'I'm sure that man's conscience is really worrying him today,' she told the West Australian newspaper. 'I'm sure he didn't go out deliberately to burn everyone's home down. It was just one of those accidents.'

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