A four-year-old girl has died in a Manchester house fire, with a woman arrested on suspicion of arson
A tragic house fire in Manchester has claimed the life of a four-year-old girl, with a 44-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
Emergency crews rushed to the blaze at a terraced home on Gateshead Close, near Rusholme, at around 12:35 pm on Sunday. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames quickly and rescue the child, but she had already suffered severe injuries. Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was pronounced dead at the hospital a short time later.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the arrested woman was known to the child. Authorities assured the public there was no wider threat to the community.
A police cordon remains in place around Gateshead Close as forensic teams investigate. Nearby roads, including Parkfield Street and Moss Lane East, have been closed.
Ben Levy, Area Manager for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, expressed condolences, saying: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the young girl during this devastating time. We will work closely with Greater Manchester Police to support their investigation.”
Residents in the area were left shaken by the tragedy. One neighbour, who often saw the girl playing outside, described the news as “heartbreaking.”
Images from the scene show the charred remains of the home, with a burnt-out window visible. Graffiti reading “you are loved” is scrawled on the building’s wall, a haunting contrast to the tragedy that unfolded inside.
The investigation continues as police work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the deadly blaze.
Detectives are now piecing together the events leading up to the fire, speaking to witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area. While authorities have yet to confirm a motive, they are urging anyone with information to come forward. A neighbour, who asked to remain anonymous, mentioned seeing emergency services rush to the scene, describing the sight of smoke billowing from the house as “absolutely terrifying.”
Meanwhile, tributes have begun to appear outside the home, with locals leaving flowers, teddy bears, and heartfelt notes in memory of the young girl. A family friend, visibly emotional, told reporters, “She was such a happy little soul—always laughing, always playing. It’s devastating to think she’s gone.”
