A father’s world was turned upside down when his daughter’s mobile home was deliberately set ablaze in what police are investigating as a suspected arson. The incident happened early on Tuesday, October 28, at a log-style cabin located on Vagg Lane in Chilthorne Domer, near Yeovil.
The fire was reported just after 6 a.m. by a passer-by, prompting Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue to dispatch four fire engines to the scene. Avon and Somerset Police were notified about an hour later to begin their inquiry into the blaze.
Thankfully, no one was inside the property at the time, but the destruction was complete. Matty Griffin’s daughter, 19-year-old Lyla, was due to move into the cabin about four weeks ago. However, a temporary job in Winchester delayed her plans, and Matty reflects that had she been inside, her life may have been at risk.
READ MORE: Chip-stealing Seagull Mural Breathes New Life into Taunton’s Independent Quarter
READ MORE: Motorcyclist Injured in Hit-and-Run Collision on A39 Between Bath and Bristol
Speaking to SomersetLive, Matty shared the shock and devastation he feels: “My brother called me at around 6 a.m. when he noticed the fire. By the time my girlfriend and I got there, nothing was left to save. That cabin was worth £60,000—a home I was helping build for my daughter. If she hadn’t taken that job, she would have been there. I truly believe she wouldn’t be here now.”
The loss has left Matty deeply shaken. “It’s heartbreaking. I just can’t get it out of my mind. I’m so disappointed and frustrated that someone could do this. What do they stand to gain from ruining someone else’s life?” he said.
The local community has rallied in support since the fire, and Matty hopes to organize a fundraiser to help cover the financial and emotional costs of this tragedy.
Police confirmed the investigation remains ongoing. A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “We were called by the fire service at around 7 a.m. to a suspected arson incident on Vagg Lane. Officers attended to assist firefighters as they extinguished the flames. CCTV footage and further inquiries are underway to determine the cause.”
Firefighters responded swiftly after the initial 6:07 a.m. report, with two engines from Yeovil, and additional support from Martock and Somerton. Crews equipped with breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets, a main jet, and a thermal imaging camera worked diligently to bring the fire under control.
The mobile home, measuring 12 by 6 meters and constructed with timber cladding and sheet roofing, was entirely consumed by the fire. The fire service confirmed the structure had been unoccupied for some time and has since handed over the investigation to the police.