Kittens and their mother die in arson attack

Investigation underway after blaze at Wigan house

FIREFIGHTERS battled to save the lives of four kittens with oxygen but they died along with their mother after arsonists set fire to their home.

Crews from Wigan were called to an unoccupied property on Larkhill Avenue, Wigan, at around 9.30pm on Thursday August 30.

Firefighters and police were alerted to the blaze after receiving reports of two men breaking into the house and setting fire to the living room.

Crews in breathing apparatus used two hose reels to tackle the blaze and gave oxygen to the kittens – tragically their mother had already died of smoke inhalation.

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

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Investigation Team and Greater Manchester Police are conducting a joint investigation into the attack.

Chair of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor David Acton, said: "This attack highlights the tragic consequences of arson. Our firefighters worked tirelessly to save these animals - but they sadly lost their lives.

"Thankfully no humans were hurt in this attack, but an arson attack puts the public at risk along with the firefighters who tackle these deliberate fires.

"Arson will not be tolerated and we are working closely with the police to carry out a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.”

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