Police appeal for witnesses following suspected arson attack in Rochdale

At 8:30pm last night (Wednesday 4 September) we were called to reports of a fire at an address on Halifax Road in Rochdale.

Emergency services attended and five people, including three children, were treated for injuries, thankfully they are not believed to be life threatening or life changing.

Initial enquiries suggest that this may be arson.

No arrests have been made and an investigation is underway. Police are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time who may hold information that could assist with the investigation.

Detective Inspector Katie Buntine, from GMP's Rochdale district said: “This is a disturbing incident where a property has been targeted, placing a family and three young children at risk of serious harm.

“Our investigation is in the early stages, and we will remain at the scene today whilst we conduct further enquiries and to provide a visible reassurance to the community.

“We are appealing to the public’s help to do identify who was responsible – were you in the area last night and perhaps saw something that seemed suspicious? No matter how small the information may seem, it may be crucial to our investigation, and I ask you to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.

"This includes any relevant dashcam footage - it is a busy road with plenty of vehicles including taxis and buses, which may well have captured something.

"I would, finally, like to use this opportunity to say that we are committed to identifying those responsible for this reckless behaviour, which could have had devastating consequences for this family, and ensuring that they face justice." 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8519 quoting 3525 of 04/09/24 or the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. You can also contact police via 101 or gmp.police.uk.