Police to step up patrols in Levenshulme after car set on fire
Officers are treating the incident as a hate crime
Police have launched an investigation after a car was set on fire in Levenshulme.
Shortly after 8.16pm on Sunday 17 February 2019 police were called to Barlow Road in Levenshulme to reports that a parked car was on fire on the junction of Firsby Street.
Police and the Fire Service attended and following an investigation by the Fire Service it was deemed to be arson with intent to endanger life.
A man wearing a light coloured top or jacked with the hood pulled up, dark trousers and dark shoes, was seen running away from the scene down Firsby Street and Balleratt Street towards Charlton Street.
A 35-year-old man has today, Tuesday 19 February 2019, been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent, driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance.
Police are continuing to check CCTV and appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to get in touch as soon as possible.
This is currently being investigated at the level of a hate incident.
Detective Inspector Jen Tattersall from GMP’s City of Manchester team said: “We are currently investigating a number of possible motives for this incident and are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to help our investigation.
“Thankfully no one was injured in this incident, but they could easily have been.
“We are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness. Residents are likely to see a number of high visibility patrols in the area in the coming days.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 854502 or alternatively call 101 quoting the reference number 2141 of 17 February or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111