A 21 year-old-woman has been charged with arson in relation to a fire in Gray in the early hours of this morning.

At around 2:30am Police and Fire and Rescue were called to a house fire at Essington Avenue.

Sergeant Graeme Wheeler of the Serious Crime Squad said upon arrival, the front door of the residence, fencing and front yard shrubs were alight.

“Firefighters also worked to extinguish secondary fires which were located at the rear of the residence,” Sergeant Wheeler said.

“At this stage, it is believed petrol from two jerry cans at the scene was used to ignite the front and rear fires.

“The alleged offender was located and arrested in the vicinity a short time later. The woman has been charged with arson and attempted unlawful entry and remains in custody assisting with enquiries.

“Police wish to speak to anybody who may have witnessed the crime and ask them to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police on 131 444.”