Arson Suspected in Aixirivall Car Fire Destroying Three Vehicles

Firefighters quickly contained a blaze that destroyed three parked vehicles in Aixirivall, a neighbourhood in Sant Julià de Lòria parish, on Sunday evening, prompting a police investigation into possible arson.

The alert came in shortly after 8pm, with two cars already ablaze near the local playground and Borda de les Pubilles restaurant. By the time six firefighters arrived in two vehicles, including a fire engine, a third car—a Mitsubishi—had caught fire from the radiant heat. Crews controlled the flames within about 30 minutes and fully extinguished them after roughly an hour. No injuries occurred, though thick black smoke and explosions from burning tyres caused alarm among residents. Police and traffic agents closed roads to secure the area.

Local residents moved a fourth four-wheel-drive vehicle by breaking its window and releasing the handbrake, averting further damage. The fire also scorched a wooden fence bordering the parking area and nearby bushes. Scientific police later collected samples with firefighters to pinpoint the cause.

Witnesses noted flames originating beneath the cars, which had been stationary for hours in cool weather, ruling out likely mechanical or electrical issues. Police are examining this incident alongside a car fire on February 4 at 7am in Aixirivall's old town centre, after overnight street parking. No definitive connection exists yet, though investigators are reviewing camera footage and keeping all hypotheses open, including deliberate ignition. Officials note such fires are rare in the area.

Residents expressed heightened anxiety, particularly those without covered parking, fearing repetition. Some mentioned prior minor damage to vehicles and a motorcycle nearby. The Comú de Sant Julià de Lòria, led by mayor Cerni Cairat, has offered full support to security forces, including human and technical resources, while maintaining close coordination. The parish authority reaffirmed its commitment to community well-being and thanked emergency services. No additional fires have been reported as the probe continues.