Two people rescued from burning building after arson attack in Birmingham

Police are appealing for witnesses after rescuing two people from a burning building in an arson attack in Lozells.

Patrolling police officers first spotted the fire just before midnight on Sunday (25 Feb) and went into the building to guide two people to safety.

One of the police officers was sent to hospital with smoke inhalation.

Investigators say they're treating the fire as arson and are appealing to anyone who saw what happened to get in touch. They are going through CCTV and carrying out door-to-door enquiries in the area.

DS David Newson, from Birmingham CID, said: "This fire had the potential to have really serious consequences. Thankfully, the quick-thinking response of officers in the face of danger to themselves got the two residents to safety.

"We are working with our colleagues at WMFS Fire Investigation Team and would like to hear from local people as we try to build a picture of what has happened.

"Villa Road is a main route and we'd ask anyone who was driving along it between 11pm and midnight time, to take a look at any dashcam they may have, as it could hold vital evidence for our investigation."

It's believed the fire was started in the carport of the building.

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