Two more people arrested as investigation into Dovestone Reservoir moorland fire continues

Two more people have been arrested as part of the ongoing investigation into the devastating moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir.

Yesterday (16 July 2026), a 19-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of arson and has been bailed pending further police enquiries, before a man in his 20s has today (17 July) been arrested on suspicion of arson, and remains in custody for questioning.

These follow the arrest and subsequent charging of 20-year-old Shania Care-Slede, from Hyde.

Care-Slede has been charged with aggravated arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and dangerous driving, and was remanded in custody before appearing at Manchester Magistrates’ Court this past Tuesday (14 July).

After the blaze broke out this past Saturday evening (11 July) at the popular beauty spot in Oldham, prompting a major multi-agency response, fire crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have been working around the clock in challenging conditions to contain the fire and prevent further spread across the moorland.

Specialist wildfire resources, command support units, drone technology, and partner agencies have also been deployed as operations continue across multiple sectors of the incident.

To make matters worse, ‘strong’ winds carried smoke across parts of Greater Manchester – with reports of haze and the smell of burning being received from areas well beyond the immediate vicinity of the fire.

Woman, 20, publicly named and charged with aggravated arson in relation to Dovestone moorland fire

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With three major arrests having already now been made, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) says its officers are continuing to pursue a number of lines of enquiry and are seeking to identify any other individuals who may have been involved.

“This investigation has been progressing at pace, we are nearly a week on and the fire at Dovestones is still ongoing, and it has had devastating effects it has had on the Reservoir,” commented Detective Inspector Andrew Day, of GMP’s Oldham division said.

“As this incident continues, officers would like to thank all emergency service partners for their support and dedication.

“In particular, our colleagues at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, whose firefighters have spent countless hours tackling the fire in demanding conditions.”

Read more:

• Woman, 20, publicly named and charged with aggravated arson in relation to Dovestone moorland fire
• Firefighters continue to tackle moorland fire at Dovestones Reservoir amid ‘strong’ winds
• Urgent open water safety appeal issued after teen tragically dies in Dovestone Reservoir

As criminal proceedings are now active, GMP is continuing to encourage people to ‘avoid speculation’ online, particularly on social media.

Anyone with footage or information that may assist the ongoing investigation can submit it via the Dovestone Fire Evidence Submission Portal here.

Featured Image – GMFRS