Murder investigation launched after man trapped in Wigan house fire dies

A murder investigation has been launched after a man who was trapped in a house fire in Wigan passed away.

The man in his 40s was rescued from the blaze and taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Tragically, he died in hospital a short while later.

Greater Manchester Police detectives are treating the fire as a suspected arson attack and have arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of murder and section 18 assault.

The fire was reported at 6.40am on Wednesday 14 August, on Dumbarton Green in Wigan.

The victim was trapped inside the burning building until emergency services attended the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Nicola McCulloch, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this incredibly sad time.

“We believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public.

“We are still in the early stages of our investigation, but at this time we believe this is an arson attack resulting in the tragic death of a man.

“Whilst we remain at the scene, speaking with residents and conducting extensive CCTV trawls, we need members of the public who may have been in the area of Dumbarton Green, or at the address, on Tuesday and Wednesday during the early morning to come forward and speak to us.

“To submit any information or CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage please submit it through the Major Incident Public Portal here: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)

“If you have any information regarding this incident please contact us on 0161 856 0110 or 101 and quote log number 533 of 14/08/2024.

“Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

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