Bognor Man is charged with arson and attempted murder after fire in Oak Grove

A man has been charged with attempted murder and arson after a deliberate fire in Bognor Regis, police said.
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Aaron Wilks, 37, unemployed, of Ash Grove, Bognor Regis, was arrested and later charged with attempted murder, arson and throwing/casting an explosive substance with intent to burn/maim/disfigure/disable/ do grievous bodily harm.

Police were called to Oak Grove around 8.20pm on Thursday, April 8, to reports of a fire in one of the gardens. One man was taken to hospital after suffering serious burns, police said.

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Wilks was also charged with criminal damage, blackmail and possession of a bladed article in relation to two separate incidents.

Police at the scene in Bognor last night (April 8)Police at the scene in Bognor last night (April 8)
Police at the scene in Bognor last night (April 8)

He appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday morning (April 13) and was remanded in custody to appear before Portsmouth Crown Court on May 7, 2021.

Chief inspector Jon Carter, district commander for Chichester and Arun, said: “The investigation is ongoing, but we believe this to be a targeted attack with no risk to the wider public.

“This was a really serious incident and we continue to appeal for any witnesses to come forward to support our investigation.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Viper. They can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.