A devastating overnight car fire on Belmont Street in Bognor has left a local care home without its vital transport vehicle, after the people carrier used to support vulnerable adults was completely destroyed in the blaze.
The fire, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning (22 March), damaged multiple vehicles along the residential road. One of those was a specially adapted vehicle used daily by staff to help residents attend medical appointments, visit family, and take part in community activities.
The care home manager, who supports adults with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health diagnoses, said:
“Understandably, the people we support are upset and overwhelmed by what’s happened. The car they rely on has been obliterated.
I would like to believe this was a freak fault, but given the time of the fire and the catastrophic damage caused to several cars, I’m not convinced.”
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the emotional impact on residents and staff has been described as significant.
The care home is now appealing to local residents who may have Ring doorbell or CCTV footage from the area, or who may have witnessed suspicious activity.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Sussex Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 0147 of 22/03/25, or to message the care home manager privately.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
