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Arson accused blames 'cigarette flick' for devastating fire

The man accused of deliberately starting a fire that put homes and lives at risk in the NSW Hunter Valley has been refused bail in court.

Father-of-two Craig Lambkin claims he simply flicked a lit cigarette onto the ground while visiting the Kurri Kurri cemetery on Tuesday, and “panicked” when he saw the flames.

Appearing in the Maitland court on Wednesday, it was alleged the 26-year-old was in possession of a mobile phone but made “no attempt to call the emergency authorities”.

Arson accused Craig Lambkin. Source: 7 News
Arson accused Craig Lambkin. Source: 7 News
The fire forced the evacuation of homes and businesses. Source: 7 News
The fire forced the evacuation of homes and businesses. Source: 7 News

The court also heard Lambkin initially told detectives he hadn’t been to Kurri Kurri, before admitting to flicking the cigarette.

The fire, which was sparked in hot conditions, forced the evacuation of homes and businesses across Kurri Kurri, with water bombers called in to stop the blaze spreading.

Authorities are working to see if Lambkin is linked to other fires in the area. Source: 7 News
Authorities are working to see if Lambkin is linked to other fires in the area. Source: 7 News
The court sketch of father-of-two Craig Lambkin. Source: 7 News
The court sketch of father-of-two Craig Lambkin. Source: 7 News

Police say a vigilant couple saw the alleged arsonist emerge from bushland moment after seeing black smoke.

The couple claim that the man gave them “a cheeky grin” as he rode away on a mountain bike.

Lambkin hid in the police car on arrival to court. Source: 7 News
Lambkin hid in the police car on arrival to court. Source: 7 News

After calling 000, the couple then followed the accused in their car to the neighbouring suburb of Weston.

Lambkin was arrested at his home in Weston on Tuesday afternoon.

Authorities are now trying to determine if Lambkin is linked to other fires that have recently torn through the Kurri Kurri area.

Fire investigation officers at the scene. Source: 7 News
Fire investigation officers at the scene. Source: 7 News
The charred Kurri Kurri scene. Source: 7 News
The charred Kurri Kurri scene. Source: 7 News

“With the firies mate, you’ve got to take your hat off to them,” one grateful resident said.

Lambkin has been refused bail and he’ll appear in court again on 27 February on charges of intentionally causing a fire and being reckless as to it spreading.

Lambkin was arrested as the Kurri Kurri fire raged. Source: 7 News
Lambkin was arrested as the Kurri Kurri fire raged. Source: 7 News