Hunt launched for man in balaclava following 'wilful' fire in West Lothian

A manhunt has been launched after a ‘wilful’ fire at a property in a West Lothian village.

An accelerant is believed to have been used to set fire to the door of a flat on Crossgreen Drive in Uphall around 4.20am on Friday May 15.

Emergency crews attended and no injuries were reported.

Officers are keen to speak to a male seen in the area around the time. He was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava and was heading towards Glebe Avenue.

Detective Sergeant Derek Smith said: “This incident could have had far more serious consequences had the occupant not managed to escape safely and alert the emergency services. It’s vital we trace the person responsible for this reckless act.

“I’m urging anyone with information, or who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area, to come forward. I’d also ask anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dash-cam footage of the area around the time to review this for anything which may assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 0353 of 16 May, 2026. Alternatively, you can speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.