POLICE have launched an arson investigation after a fire in an underground car park in Southampton.

It comes after firefighters battled a blaze in an underground car park in the Chapel area of the city last night.

Flats in Cabot House, Chapel Road, were evacuated, while one person was rushed to hospital.

The incident happened around 8.30pm yesterday.

Around 15 reports were made from people, who reported seeing smoke coming from under the building.

Crews from Hightown, St Mary's, Redbridge and Eastleigh all attended the fire, which began when a van parked in the underground car park burst into flames.

A spokesperson said one person was rushed to hospital during the incident, to be treated for smoke inhalation.

The van was completely destroyed by the blaze, while the underground car park was also damaged.

Police say they are now investigating the fire, which they believed could be arson.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We were called at 8.36pm last night (Monday 12 November) to reports of a fire at an underground car park in The Compass, Southampton.

"A van was set alight in the car park.

"One person was taken to Southampton General hospital for treatment to smoke inhalation.

"The incident is being treated as arson and enquiries are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44180425547."