Local residents react with shock to the fire that completely destroyed a house at the Papiermolen in Hoorn last night. They strongly suspect that the fire was started. “There are often problems.” No one was injured in the fire.
Several neighbors speak of a ‘drug problem’ with the resident. “He is a nice man, but we rarely meet him sober,” says a local resident who wishes to remain anonymous. “Sometimes a stone went through the window.” According to local residents, the house was frequently visited, especially at night, by ‘all kinds of vague types’ who often caused a nuisance.
Residents suspect the fire was caused deliberately. “We saw certain visitors returning. I strongly suspect that it was lit,” said one of them.
The police have announced that they are indeed considering arson. A 39-year-old woman from Hoorn was arrested earlier today.
House destroyed
In daylight the extent of the damage is visible. All the windows have shattered and there is nothing left of the interior inside. A forensic investigation and fire brigade team is busy assessing the damage in the afternoon.
It was at 5 a.m. last night that the fire broke out. The flames were coming out of the front and back of the terraced house. The entire house burned out, according to a spokesperson for the Safety Region. No one was home at that time. Adjacent homes also suffered damage.
The police are interrogating the woman and conducting further investigations.