Three arrested after arson attack

September 7, 2012, 1:43 pm

Police have made three arrests after an arson attack on a Wigan house killed a cat and a number of  kittens.

At about 9.30pm on Thursday 30 August 2012, emergency services were called to an unoccupied house on Larkhill Avenue, Standish, following reports two men were seen breaking in.

Officers arrived and found a fire had been started in the house.

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A mother cat and four kittens were in the house at the time, all of which suffered smoke inhalation. The mother cat died at the scene.

The kittens, who were just days old, were taken by the RSPCA officer to Greater Manchester Animal Hospital, but their condition deteriorated over night and they were put to sleep.

No people were hurt in the fire, which was extinguished by the fire brigade.

Three men, aged 26, 21 and 19 were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and have been released on bail pending further inquiries until 26 October 2012.

Detective Constable Kevin Telford, of Wigan CID, said: “The cats owner is understandably distraught about what has happened to her pets.

“What makes matters worse is the fact that the kittens were only a matter of a few days old. Also, this reckless  incident caused potential danger to neighbouring houses and residents.

“Since this happened we have managed to arrest three people in connection with the incident but I now want to appeal to any potential witnesses.

“Two men were seen sneaking into the back garden by a witness so I now want to hear from anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously before the fire. Did you see them lurking nearby and perhaps think nothing of it at the time?

“If so, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Wigan CID on 0161 856 7352 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.