Police are investigating at least two explosions and fires that disrupted business in Gosford on Thursday afternoon, December 5, forcing dozens of employees to evacuate a Donnison St office building and a State Government building in Baker St.
At about 2.20pm emergency services were called to the office building in Donnison St, following reports of several explosions.
The building was evacuated and no injuries were reported as a result of the explosions.
In a separate incident, a small fire was started in a Legal Aid office on Baker St forcing the evacuation of that building.
A statement from Legal Aid NSW confirmed the fire started in the reception area and said the office would remain temporarily closed.
“At the scene, police were told that a man entered the office before allegedly lighting a fire and fleeing the scene,” the statement said.
Authorities have released CCTV footage of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries.
He is described as being in his 60s, with a short, chubby build, wearing a black face covering, black shirt, dark pants, shoes and a cap.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Superintendent Adam Dewberry said more than 40 firefighters in 11 trucks responded to the blaze, which had been brought under control.
“The fire is believed to be contained at this stage,” he said on Thursday afternoon, adding that the area was heavily affected by smoke shortly after the incident.
Emergency services reported that a 54-year-old employee was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.
Michael Mantaj, director of Conditsis Lawyers, who was in the building at the time, described the event as alarming.
“I didn’t see the guy, but someone threw an incendiary device,” he said.
“All staff are accounted for; fortunately, no one was injured.”
The office block was locked down so it could be ventilated before investigations could fully commence.
The motive for the attack remains unclear and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
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