Aussie city rocked by office explosions
A building housing a Legal Aid office has been evacuated after several explosions and a fire, in a possible fire bombing on the NSW Central Coast.
Emergency services, including dozens of NSW Police, NSW Fire and Rescue and NSW Ambulance, were called to the building on Donnison Street in Gosford, about 2.20pm Thursday afternoon after reports of several explosions.
“The building was evacuated and no injuries have been reported as a result of the explosions,” a police spokesperson said.
One witness said he was working in the office building when a person threw an incendiary device into the building.
“We ran for our lives,” they told The Central Coast Express Advocate.
Conditsis Lawyers director Michael Mantaj was inside the building at the time of the explosions.
“I didn’t see the guy but someone threw an incendiary device,” he told the ABC.
“All staff are accounted for. Fortunately no-one was injured.”
A short time later, emergency crews were called to a separate office building after reports of a fire.
Police understand a man entered the office before allegedly lighting a fire and fleeing the scene.
As inquiries continue, police wish to speak to a man seen in the area at the time of the incident.
He is described as being aged in his 60s, of short stature, chubby build, wearing an all-black face covering, a black T-shirt, dark pants and shoes, and a dark cap.
Poliec havew since released a CCTV image of the man they believe can assist with investigators.
A 54-year-old woman was treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation.
No other injuries were reported.
Donnison Street remains closed in several sections near Dane Drive, Mann Street, and Baker Street.
Motorists and the community are urged to avoid the area.
An investigation has been launched, with police from Brisbane Water Police District, assisted by specialist recourses, remaining on the scene.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
