Geraldton detectives launch investigation into Meru scrub fire, believed to be deliberately lit

Geraldton detectives are investigating what they believe to be a suspiciously lit bushfire in Meru on Monday, after firefighters spent the afternoon fighting the blaze, stopping it from spreading to nearby homes. Witnesses are urged to come forward as detectives launch an investigation into a bushfire, which is believed to have been deliberately lit. A watch and act warning was issued for parts of the suburb just after 12.30pm on Monday, with firefighters at the scene actively fighting the fire. Department of Fire and Emergency Services gave the all clear on Tuesday morning. Homes and businesses north of Landfill Lane and west of Edward Road Road were told of a possible threat to lives and homes as the fire approached the area. Just before 5pm, the warning level was reduced to an alert with the blaze contained and under control and firefighters patrolling and mopping up the area. “There is no threat to lives or homes,” DFES stated. “Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.” Firefighters continue to patrol and mop up the area on Tuesday. Geraldton police OIC Sen. Sgt Chris Martin said the blaze, which started in bushland on Goulds Road in Meru, was believed to be deliberately lit. Another deliberately lit car fire was reported in Waggrakine on Monday morning about 7am, but Sen. Sgt Martin confirmed the fires were not linked. Edward Road between Geraldton-Mount Magnet Road and Deepdale Road have reopened with a 40km/h speed limit, as well as Goulds Road between Geraldton-Mount Magnet Road and Rudds Gully Road. The City have issued a statement advising the closure of Meru Waste Management Facility until further notice. Geraldton detectives ask anyone with information or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage of the area to contact police. The investigation remains ongoing.