Suspicious house fire on Abraham Street in Karloo results in Geraldton detectives arresting three juveniles

Geraldton detectives investigating a suspicious house fire in Karloo on Sunday, which left a $100,000 damage bill, have arrested and charged three juvenile boys. Police allege the three boys broke into a shed on Cassia Street in Rangeway and stole three bicycles at around 9pm on Sunday. They then allegedly rode the bicycles towards an abandoned house on Abraham Street in Karloo to meet with another juvenile where the four boys entered the house. Police allege one of the boys lit a small fire which quickly spread inside the property. The fire was reported to authorities about 11pm. Police say the boys fled the property. It took firefighters less than 15 minutes to extinguish the blaze, which destroyed a number of rooms and caused considerable damage. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services and police estimate the damage at $100,000. Geraldton Detectives officer-in-charge Det. Sen Sgt Bruce McDonald said police arrested and charged three boys, aged 14, 15 and 16, on Wednesday. “The stolen bikes have been recovered and the investigation is ongoing,” he said. “Information received during the investigation (points to) another juvenile boy involved in the incident.” The 16-year-old boy from Rangeway was charged with trespass, aggravated burglary and stealing and was referred to the Juvenile Justice Team. The 14-year-old boy from Rangeway was charged with trespass, aggravated burglary and stealing and the 15-year-old from Waggrakine was charged with trespass and breach of duty over the fire. Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist. Police ask anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.