A sixth person, a 25 year old man, has now been arrested in connection with the investigation into yesterday’s fire at a mid terraced house in Walkden in which three people died.

Three of five people arrested on Monday have been released on bail,say police referring to the blaze as a targeted attack.

The 20-year-old woman and a 23-year-old man who were arrested yesterday remain in custody for questioning.

Fourteen-year-old Demi Pearson died at the scene of the blaze, which broke out in Jackson Street, Walkden around 5.00am yesterday morning.Eight-year-old Brandon and Lacie, aged seven, died in hospital.

Three-year-old girl Lia and the children’s mother thirty five year old Michelle Pearson continue to fight for their lives say police.

The attack, according to reports in the Manchester Evening News are the second targeted on the house in recent days.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that they had been called to the house hours before the attack and have referred the matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

“We now have a much deeper understanding of the devastating events which lead to the tragic deaths of three children in Walkden in the early hours of yesterday morning and have made significant progress in this investigation.” say police, adding

We are so very grateful to the members of the public who have come forward and given us information to help with our investigation. We have received vital information which has helped us to make this progress.

“We are continuing to appeal for information however, we have made arrests but the hard work has really just begun and justice can only be done with the help and support of the local community.

“Anyone with any information is asked to call us on 0161 856 8797 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“A mandatory referral has been made to the IPCC due to the fact there was previous police contact.

“This will be a painstaking investigation for all involved. We will continue to work with GMFRS to establish the cause of the fire but this is not a quick process.

“Finally, I would like to reassure the local people that we are doing everything in our power to get to the bottom of this and find and bring to justice the people responsible for the murder of three innocent children and the attempted murder of their sister and their mother.

“There will be an increased number of officers on the streets to reassure the local people and anyone with any questions or concerns is asked to speak to those officers.”

Meanwhile the headteachers of two Walkden schools have issued statements following the devastating fire in Walkden, Salford yesterday.

Emma Henderson, head teacher at Bridgewater Primary school said: “We are all shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred yesterday.

“Our school is very much part of this special community and understands the intense pain experienced at this senseless loss of precious life. We are consoling our pupils and their families and send our deepest sympathies and prayers to all those affected.”

Drew Povey, head teacher, Harrop Fold school, said: “We are all truly devastated by the loss of precious life that our community has recently suffered. Words seem inadequate in these tragic circumstances.

“In these darkest of times, we unite and support our students and their families. Team Harrop mourns alongside the relatives and friends of those whose lives were needlessly and mercilessly taken from them.  The spirit of Salford cannot and will not be crushed. We will work together to comfort and rebuild those lives that have been forever changed.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here