44-year-old woman known to the child arrested on suspicion of arson
A four-year-old girl has died following a devastating house fire in Rusholme, Manchester, with a woman now under arrest on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
Emergency services were called to a property on Gateshead Close on Sunday afternoon after reports of a serious fire. Firefighters pulled the young girl from the burning home, but despite their best efforts, she later succumbed to her injuries in hospital.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that a 44-year-old woman, known to the child, has been taken into custody. Investigators have stated that they are not looking for any further suspects.
Police and fire service launch full investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Whalley, leading the investigation, expressed her condolences to the child’s loved ones and assured the public that a full inquiry was underway.
“This awful incident has seen the tragic death of a young girl, and I would like to send my condolences to her friends and family. Numerous emergency services attended the scene and all did their utmost best to save her,” she said.
DCI Whalley also confirmed that there is no wider threat to the community and urged people to remain calm while officers work to establish the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
“These tragic incidents will of course naturally cause concern, but I want to reassure the public that we are fully investigating all circumstances of the fire and will leave no stone unturned as we carry out this work.”
Firefighters’ desperate efforts to save the child
Fire crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) arrived at the scene within minutes of receiving the emergency call.
Area Manager Ben Levy described the heartbreaking incident, offering his sympathy to the child’s family and friends.
“I want to pass on the condolences of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to the family and friends of the young girl who tragically lost her life following this incident. Our thoughts are with them during this sad and difficult time,” he said.
Levy confirmed that fire crews would be working closely with GMP to determine the cause of the blaze and support the police investigation.
“We will work closely with Greater Manchester Police to support their investigation into this tragic incident.”
Community in shock as investigation continues
The news of the four-year-old’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community. Neighbours described the scene as harrowing, with emergency vehicles arriving in large numbers as the fire took hold.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, told reporters:
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“It was absolutely devastating. The fire was huge, and we could see the smoke billowing from the house. When we heard that a child had been inside, we were just hoping she would be okay. It’s heartbreaking to hear she didn’t make it.”
Others expressed anger and disbelief over the circumstances of the fire, particularly following news of the arrest.
“It’s truly shocking. A little girl has lost her life, and now we hear someone was arrested for arson. It’s just awful,” said another resident.
Appeal for information
Greater Manchester Police are urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward. A dedicated team of officers is reviewing evidence, including CCTV footage and witness statements, to piece together what happened in the lead-up to the blaze.
Police have also encouraged local residents to report any concerns, and a police presence will remain in the area to reassure the community.
Anyone with information is asked to contact GMP on 101, quoting reference number 528 of 25/02/24, or to report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
As the investigation continues, the community is mourning the tragic loss of a young child while awaiting further details on how this devastating incident unfolded.
