**Police Investigating Deliberate Fire at Abandoned Scottish Hospital**
In a recent incident, the police have begun an investigation into a fire at a derelict hospital in Scotland, treating it as a deliberate act. The blaze occurred at Nithbank Hospital in Dumfries, with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) receiving the initial call at 4.26 pm on Wednesday. Subsequently, Police Scotland were informed about the fire just over an hour later. Seven fire appliances were dispatched to the scene to combat the well-developed flames on the ground floor of the abandoned building. The fire was eventually extinguished by the early hours of Thursday morning, with the last crew leaving after ensuring the area’s safety.
Following the incident, a check was conducted at 7 am on Thursday to confirm that the fire was completely extinguished. Authorities suspect that the fire was started intentionally and have consequently launched a thorough investigation. A Police Scotland spokesperson stated, “Enquiries are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire which is currently being treated as wilful.” Similarly, an SFRS spokesperson reported, “Operations control mobilised seven fire appliances and firefighters extinguished a fire affecting a derelict building with no reported casualties.”
This development highlights the need for swift action by emergency services and law enforcement agencies when responding to such incidents. The collaborative effort between the fire service and the police in handling this fire illustrates their commitment to public safety and security. Investigations into the deliberate nature of the fire underscore the importance of holding those responsible accountable for such reckless acts. As the authorities delve deeper into the case, the community eagerly awaits further updates on the outcome of their inquiries.