AN investigation is underway after a car was torched in what authorities believe to be a deliberate attack.

A fire crew and police officers attended Hooper Avenue, Colchester, after receiving reports of a car “exploding” on New Year’s Day.

A nearby resident said she heard a “loud bang followed by screaming” at about 9.10pm from her home in William Harris Way, Berechurch.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said the blaze was extinguished within 20 minutes by 9.30pm.

She added: “The cause of the fire is thought to be deliberate.”

Gazette: Emergency - a fire crew at the sceneEmergency - a fire crew at the scene (Image: Emily Florence)

The resident said the incident has left her shocked, adding she remains concerned about the potential of a future blaze.

“I was at home and I heard a loud bang which sounded like a gunshot, followed by some screaming,” she said.

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The resident explained she heard more bangs and screaming when looking at the unfolding scene as she peered out of her window.

She added: “I saw my neighbour running down the road so I followed and saw the fire crew putting out the fire on the car.

Gazette: Concerning - an image captured by a resident as the blaze broke outConcerning - an image captured by a resident as the blaze broke out (Image: Emily Florence)

“It was scary because it was about two or three metres away from the nearest house. I’m quite shocked as it is normally quiet around here.

“Initially we thought that someone left fireworks or something in the car and they exploded, but it’s worrying that it was intentional.

“Everyone was talking because we didn’t understand how a car had just exploded.”

A police investigation has been launched in response to the incident, with witnesses urged to contact the force.

Gazette: Car fire - Hooper AvenueCar fire - Hooper Avenue (Image: Google)

An Essex Police spokeswoman said: “We and our colleagues at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were contacted at 9.10pm on New Year’s Day following reports of a vehicle on fire.

“We attended the scene and, with our ECFRS colleagues, are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the fire.”

Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident should contact Essex Police and cite incident number 1356 of January 1.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.