Pictures show a burnt out shell of a BMW and forensics on the scene of an arson attack in Southend.

Essex police were called to Grainger Road, Southend, just before 10.30pm yesterday evening.

Investigation - Pictures show a burnt out shell of a BMW Investigation - Pictures show a burnt out shell of a BMW (Image: Newsquest)

A man, described as wearing shorts and a black bomber jacket, was seen fleeing the scene.

Photos at the scene now show the burnt out vehicle with forensics remaining on the scene to carry out investigation works.

Shock - Forensics on the sceneShock - Forensics on the scene (Image: Newsquest)

Essex Police have launched an investigation and appealed for witnesses to come forward as Essex Fire recorded the cause as deliberate.

Det Chief Insp Rachel Jeffrey said: "We are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident, witnessed anything or has any footage to please get in touch.

Cordon - Emergency services remain at the sceneCordon - Emergency services remain at the scene (Image: Newsquest)

"We know this would have been concerning for people locally and we want to reassure you that we are treating this as an isolated incident.

"An investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances and those inquiries are progressing at pace."

Damage - The aftermath of the arson attackDamage - The aftermath of the arson attack (Image: Newsquest)

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police, quoting incident 1239 of September 17.