A Cromer truck fire tied to a suspected insurance scam has landed a 21-year-old man in jail, nearly two years after he set the vehicle alight in April 2023. Bailey James Chapman was sentenced in April 2025 to two years in prison for the crime committed outside a local club.
What Happened in the Cromer Car Park
The fire took place late in the evening on Sunday, 2 April 2023. Fire and Rescue NSW crews responded to a truck ablaze in the outdoor car park of the club on Fisher Road North. Despite their efforts, the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter was completely destroyed.
The truck was registered to a local business offering rubbish removal services. Security footage from the area showed Chapman arriving at the club with a woman earlier in the day. Investigators later learned he had returned that night and poured fuel over the vehicle before setting it on fire.
The Investigation Uncovered a Fraud Scheme
Detectives from Northern Beaches Police tracked evidence linking Bailey Chapman and a 38-year-old woman, married to the truck’s co-owner, to the fire. Chapman had borrowed a friend’s bank card under the pretext of buying vapes.
He instead used it to purchase fuel, which he took to the club car park. Police allege the woman and her husband later filed a $50,000 insurance claim. Investigators believe Chapman torched the truck to assist the couple in securing the payout.
Chapman Sentenced After Admitting to the Crime
Chapman was arrested in October 2024 and later pleaded guilty to intentionally destroying property by fire. He was sentenced at Manly Local Court on 23 April 2025 to two years in prison, with a six-month non-parole period.
Based on time already served, he could be released as early as 4 August 2025. The 38-year-old woman accused of involvement is still before the courts.
Community Safety and Concerns
Although no one was hurt in the Cromer fire, the incident raised concerns about public safety and the misuse of shared community spaces. The club, popular with both Dee Why and Cromer locals, regularly hosts sporting and social events.
Residents and patrons were reportedly shaken by the late-night blaze. Authorities say quick action by fire crews prevented further damage and continue to urge the public to report suspicious activity around local businesses.
Published 5-June-2025