Desperate manhunt underway as cops release CCTV image of a mask-clad man after firebombing attack on Legal Aid building sparked chaos in Gosford
Police have released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in relation to suspected firebombings and arson attacks on two buildings that caused mass evacuations and locked down a CBD.
The image shows a white haired man wearing a surgical mask, dull green cap and t-shirt and jeans with a bag sitting next to him.
Emergency services were called to the Legal Aid building on Donnison Street, Gosford on the NSW 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 following reports of a fire and of smoke coming out of the third floor.
NSW Chief Inspector Col Lott said a person of interest came up the building elevator before lighting an LPG bottle.
An office worker, 54, was treated by paramedics at the scene for smoke inhalation.
NSW Police on Thursday night released a CCTV footage of a man wanted for questioning over suspected arson attacks against two buildings
Police have been called to reports of explosions and a fire in two office buildings in Gosford on the NSW Central Coast
Reports of explosions and a fire at a legal aid office and a law firm resulted in the evacuation of two buildings in Gosford on the NSW Central Coast
Police are investigating after reports of a man lighting a fire and throwing an incendiary device
One man was treated for smoke inhalation from the fire but there were no other reported injuries
More than 40 firefighters attended, along with 11 fire trucks.
Fire and Rescue NSW said heavy smoke flooded multiple levels of the building but have since contained the blaze.
A witness told the ABC they saw a man throw an item into 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 the ABC.
‘All staff are accounted for. Fortunately no-one was injured.’
The Daily Telegraph reported Conditsis Lawyers were acting on behalf of Legal Aid in Gosford Local Court earlier on Thursday.
Police said this will be one line of inquiry during the investigation.
Legal Aid NSW put out a statement on Thursday night.
Donnison Street in Gosford remains closed as police investigated the incidents
The incidents led to mass evacuations across the CBD with Gosford Court also in lockdown
A manhunt has been launched for a man seen in the vicinity at the time of the incidents
‘Legal Aid NSW Gosford office has been temporarily shut & all staff evacuated following an explosion that caused a small fire in reception,’ the tweet said.
‘Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the fire. None of our staff or clients have been injured. Enquiries 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 an older 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 assist several disabled people stranded on higher storeys of the building because the lifts were stopped.
Police remain on scene and have launched an investigation.
The incidents led to mass evacuations across the CBD with Gosford Court also in lockdown.
Donnison Street was closed in several sections near Dane Drive, Mann Street, and Baker Street, with motorists and the community urged to avoid the area.
Police wish to speak with a man seen in the area at the time of the incident.
He was described as aged in his 60s, of short stature, chubby build, wearing an all-black face covering, a black T-shirt, dark pants and shoes, and a dark cap.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
