Man charged after alleged axe attack on firefighters trying to save burning home
A Sydney man has been charged after he allegedly attacked firefighters with an axe while his home burnt down.
Emergency crews were called to the scene of the blaze on Alexander Road at Whale Beach, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, after 2am Friday morning.
The firefighters started to hose down the burning building but were allegedly confronted by the resident, who ran towards them armed with an axe.
A spokesman for the NSW Fire and Rescue service said the crew members backed off and called for help.
Police arrived at the home and the man was arrested.
The 56-year-old man was taken to Chatswood Police Station where he was later charged with several offences including being armed with intent, hinder/obstruct member of fire brigade in execution of function and malicious damage.
He was refused bail to appear at Hornsby Local Court today.
Despite the firefighters’ efforts, the home was destroyed.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and a crime scene has been established.
The scene will be investigated further.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
