Investigation launched following arson attack on police vehicle in Stockton

The unoccupied marked car was parked on Waterford Road when a brick was smashed through the front side window.

The vehicle was then partially ablaze causing extensive damage and resulting in it no longer being available to use.

It is believed to have occurred at around 2.30pm on Wednesday 29 May.

Police are following numerous lines of enquiry to identify the suspects involved and are appealing to members of the public to come forward with information, CCTV or dash cam footage.

Chief Inspector Dan Heron, from Stockton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This is an incredibly serious crime, and we are progressing with our enquiries to identify and subsequently apprehend those that are responsible.

“The police car has been written off, and that means a much-needed resource that is used to respond to emergency 999 calls is now no longer available.

“As part of our enquiries, we will be conducting patrols in and around the area.

“I want to take this opportunity to urge residents in the area to check their dash cam or CCTV for footage that may assist with our investigation. I also encourage anyone with information – no matter how small – to contact Cleveland Police via 101 or if reticent to come forward, to anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”