These were the dramatic scenes in Burnham-On-Sea High Street this morning (Tuesday) after thieves attacked a cash machine to steal cash inside.
The junction of Burnham-On-Sea High Street and Adam Street was closed for much of the day, as pictured here, while police carried out an investigation into what happened.
Debris from the cash machine was scattered across the street and pavement, leading officers to seal off the area with police tape.
Residents living near the scene told Burnham-On-Sea.com that they heard a “loud bang” around 4am.
It’s understood that an explosive gas was used to gain access to the machine before cash was taken from inside.
Avon & Somerset Police spokeswoman Niamh Byrne told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We were called at 4.16am to reports of an attack on an ATM in the High Street, Burnham-On-Sea. We carried out forensic investigations.”
Burnham fire crews were also called to the scene at 4.19am. A spokesman said: “On arrival the crew found a free-standing cash machine had been involved in fire. They used a carbon dioxide extinguisher to deal with the remaining hotspots.”
“The police were also on scene, so crews assisted them with preserving the scene. It is believed the fire was started deliberately.”
An investigation is now underway, and anyone who has any information is asked to call Police on 101, quoting log number 0074 of November 14.
Pictured: The scenes in Burnham-On-Sea High Street this morning
