A 17-year-old boy from Taunton has been arrested after seven specially adapted minibuses were destroyed by a fire at Silk Mills Park and Ride in Taunton over the weekend. The fire, which occurred on Saturday (April 26) evening, was determined to be a deliberate ignition, and police have launched a comprehensive investigation.
The minibuses were utilized by schoolchildren and individuals with disabilities, making the impact of their loss particularly significant for the community. Somerset Council revealed that the four completely destroyed minibuses were valued at up to £250,000. Despite the devastation, services from the council persevered as drivers worked tirelessly to arrange alternative vehicles for the affected routes.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts commended the efforts of the transport team and expressed gratitude for the support received from local businesses offering the loan of specialized vehicles. Additionally, Avon and Somerset Police appealed for information to aid their investigation into the arson incident.
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Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue reported that four minibuses were completely damaged, while three others sustained 50 percent damage in the fire.