Police have released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to about alleged firebombing and arson attacks on two buildings that prompted mass evacuations and closed a CBD.
The image shows a white-haired man wearing a surgical mask, cap, T-shirt and dull green jeans with a bag sitting next to him.
Emergency services were called to the Legal Aid building on Donnison Street, Gosford, on the New South Wales Central Coast, about 2.20pm on Thursday, following reports of several explosions.
The building was evacuated and no injuries were reported.
A short time later, police were called to the Kensmen building on the same street after reports of a fire and smoke coming from the third floor.
NSW Chief Inspector Colonel Lott said a person of interest took the building’s lift before lighting an LPG bottle.
A 54-year-old office worker was treated by paramedics at the scene for smoke inhalation.
New South Wales Police have released CCTV footage of a man wanted for questioning over alleged arson attacks on two buildings.
Police have been called after reports of explosions and a fire at two office buildings in Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast.
Police are seen rushing to the scene following reports of explosions at a Legal Aid building.
Reports of explosions and a fire at a legal aid office and law firm prompted the evacuation of two buildings in Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast.
Police are investigating after reports of a man setting a fire and throwing an incendiary device.
One man was treated for smoke inhalation from the fire, but no other injuries were reported.
More than 40 firefighters attended, along with 11 fire trucks.
Fire and Rescue NSW said heavy smoke filled several levels of the building but has since contained the fire.
A witness told ABC he saw a man throw an object at the Legal Aid office.
Conditsis Lawyers director Michael Mantaj was one of those evacuated from the Legal Aid building where the explosions were reported.
“I didn’t see the guy, but someone threw an incendiary device,” he told ABC.
‘All personnel are accounted for. Fortunately, no one was injured.”
The Daily Telegraph reported that Conditsis Lawyers was acting on behalf of Legal Aid at Gosford Local Court on Thursday.
Police said this will be a line of inquiry during the investigation.
Legal Aid NSW issued a statement on Thursday evening.
Donnison Street in Gosford remains closed as police investigate incidents
The incidents prompted mass evacuations across the CBD and Gosford Court was also closed.
A search has been launched for a man seen nearby at the time of the incidents.
“Legal Aid NSW Gosford office has been temporarily closed and all staff evacuated following an explosion which caused a small fire in reception,” the tweet said.
‘Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the fire. None of our staff or customers have been injured. “Investigations are continuing and police are investigating.”
A postman told the Daily Telegraph he saw police running through nearby Kibble Park as if they were chasing someone.
The publication reported that an elderly man was captured on CCTV apparently carrying two devices shortly before the Legal Aid fire.
Firefighters and police brought stretchers to the Legal Aid building to help several disabled people who were stranded on the upper floors of the building because the elevators were stopped.
Police remain at the scene and have launched an investigation.
The incidents prompted mass evacuations across the CBD and Gosford Court was also closed.
Donnison Street was closed in several sections near Dane Drive, Mann Street and Baker Street, and motorists and the community were urged to avoid the area.
Police would like to speak to a man seen in the area at the time of the incident.
He was described as being in his 60s, of short stature, with a plump build, wearing an all-black face covering, a black T-shirt, dark pants and shoes, and a dark cap.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.