Police investigating arson after West Bromwich High Street blaze
Police are treating a fire at a West Bromwich High Street shop as arson.
About 15 firefighters tackled the blaze at around 10.30am today.
West Midlands Police say the door to a shop was forced open and a fire was lit inside.
The property was empty and there was no injuries. Anyone with information is asked to call police.
A force spokesman said: "Police are investigating an arson attack after the door of a vacant shop on High Street in West Bromwich was forced open and a small fire was lit.
"Fortunately the premises was empty and there were no injuries.
"Enquiries continue and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.
"Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime reference 20SW/79525U/20."
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman added: "We were called 10.28am to High Street in West Bromwich. It was a 999 call reporting a fire in a shop with flats above it.
"We sent three fire engines, a total of 15 firefighters to the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used hose reels to extinguish the fire.
"The incident involved a fire in the ground-floor shop. A search of the flats above took place and everyone was accounted for. No one was trapped inside.
"There is suggestion that the fire might have been started deliberately. We left the incident with the police who we believe are going to ensure the shop is secure."
West Midlands Police has been contacted for comment.
