West Auckland arson accused named

Dwayne May is the 26-year-old beneficiary charged with arson after a West Auckland house was set alight at the weekend.

May was remanded in custody until February 15 when he appeared in Waitakere District Court.

Two women and two children under six escaped uninjured, from the blazing Ranui home after a man was seen running away from the scene on Saturday, police said.

The house was severely damaged by fire and may be bulldozed.

Firefighters fought the blaze from 4.30pm on Saturday until about midnight.

A scene examination was completed yesterday morning.

- NZPA