On Wednesday night, February 5, an arson attack occurred on Birch Hall Lane in Longsight, Manchester, when petrol bombers targeted a family home while a mother and her children were inside.

The petrol bomb hit the living room window, leading to an immediate response from emergency services at approximately 9.30pm. Firefighters successfully contained the blaze.

No injuries were reported, and Greater Manchester Police are treating the incident as arson, with investigations currently underway.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian McNabb from GMP’s City of Manchester district emphasized the swift action of the emergency services. He stated, “Our colleagues in the first service were able to quickly and safely contain the fire and thankfully no one sustained any injuries. We are however aware of the concern an incident of this nature can have on the local community, and I want to reassure the public that we're following up all available lines of enquiry to ensure that those responsible are identified.”

He further noted, “There is an increase in police presence in the area as we continue to investigate. We would of course appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen anyone behaving suspiciously in the area yesterday evening to come forward and speak with police.”

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service reported that, “At around 9.30pm on Wednesday (February 5), three fire engines from Gorton and Moss Side fire stations attended a fire involving the living room of a house on Birch Hall Lane, Manchester. Firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, used hose reels to extinguish the fire and ensure the area was safe, alongside colleagues from GMP and North West Ambulance Service. Crews were in attendance for around one hour.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact police at 0161 856 4305 or by calling 101.