A woman and her young child had to evacuate their residence along with their pets after their car was deliberately set on fire, resulting in the flames spreading to the house, as per law enforcement officials.
Police were called to Cleggswood Avenue in Littleborough, Greater Manchester, at approximately 1:15 am on September 6 following reports of a vehicle engulfed in flames. The mother and child were asleep at the time of the incident, but the car’s alarm woke them up, alerting them to the danger, according to Greater Manchester Police.
A 42-year-old man was apprehended on suspicion of stalking and plotting to commit arson. He has been released on bail while investigations continue. Authorities have issued an image of a car that detectives are keen to identify and are seeking to communicate with its owner or occupants.
The car is believed to have arrived from Hollingworth Road and departed in the same direction, potentially heading towards Lancashire and West Yorkshire.
DC Mel Jeffery from the Rochdale division of the police force described the ordeal as “unimaginable” for the mother and child, who were roused from sleep by the car’s alarm only to discover their home ablaze in what appears to be a deliberate assault.
DC Jeffery expressed, “This was a terrifying and deliberate attack that could have resulted in a tragedy. A mother and her young child were inside their residence when their car was set on fire in the driveway, near the front entrance.”
“The fire quickly spread to the front of the house, and their safety was ensured solely due to the car’s alarm, enabling them to evacuate unharmed with their pets. The emotional turmoil they have undergone is beyond comprehension. They are safe but deeply shaken by the events,” added DC Jeffery.
Indications suggest that this was a targeted occurrence, and although there is no apparent risk to the wider public, authorities are resolute in tracking down those accountable.
DC Jeffery has made a plea to the community for any information or potential footage from around the time of the incident on September 6 to be shared with the authorities.
“I urge anyone residing or working in the vicinity to review their CCTV, doorbell cameras, or dashcam footage from the time of the incident on September 6. Even the smallest detail could prove to be crucial in solving the puzzle,” emphasized DC Jeffery.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to reach out to the police via 101 or their live chat service at Home, referencing log 205 of 06/09/25, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 for assistance.
