Police treating fire attacks on two homes as attempted murder

Fire crews were called to the first incident in Alexander Road in the Auchmuty area of the town at around 11.30pm on Tuesday, March, 28 when a property was reported to be alight.

The second incident happened around 11.40pm when it was reported that a property in Adrian Road was also on fire.

A 16-year-old male from the property at Adrian Road sustained serious injuries in the blaze and was taken to Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children for treatment.

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Cunningham of the CID, Fife Division said: “This incident is being treated as attempted murder and showed a blatant disregard for the safety of a number of people and children within the local community.

“There is a significant resource from local and national policing dedicated to this investigation and we are progressing several positive lines of enquiry.

“There is absolutely no doubt that this fire could have potentially been fatal as there were several people within both properties at the time.

“I would urge anyone who was in either the Adrian Road or Alexander Road area about 11.30pm yesterday, and saw anything suspicious, to get in touch with us as soon as possible and we are particularly interested in speaking to residents who have private CCTV.”

Tensions remain high among the local community following the incidents and police have appealed for calm.

“Incidents such as this will of course cause concern within the local community but I would urge people not to be alarmed,” said Glenrothes Community Inspector Joanne McEwan.

“Incidents such as this will of course cause concern within the local community but I would urge people not to be alarmed.

“Residents will notice local officers in the area providing a visible presence over the coming days to support the community and provide reassurance.

“I would urge local people to speak to officers should they have any concerns or information that may be relevant to this incident.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.