Suspected arsonist remanded in custody

Adrian Cousins (48) was arrested in Masbrough 24 hours after the blaze above shops in Parkgate on Friday. as remanded in custody by magistrates yesterday and is due to appear at Sheffield Crown Court next Monday.

Three crews from Rotherham and Dearne stations attended after a number of 999 calls were made about the fire. A 36-year-old man was outside on Rawmarsh Hill when they arrived shortly before 9am. He was taken to Rotherham General Hospital with burn injuries.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue’s investigation found the cause of the blaze to be suspicious.

Cousins, who appeared at Rotherham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, is charged with arson and attempted murder.

Police have appealed for witnesses who were in the Rawmarsh Hill or Broad Street areas around the time of the incident to come forward.

Anyone who may have seen the fire start or who saw anyone in the vicinity acting suspiciously is urged to contact South Yorkshire Police on 0114 220 2020 and ask for Det Con Katey West at Rotherham CID. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.