Murder probe launched after man killed as 'arson attack' trapped him in house

A murder investigation has been launched after a man was killed in a suspected arson attack on a house in Wigan.

The victim was trapped in the property on Dumbarton Green as a fire tore through it on Wednesday morning (August 14). Emergency crews, including firefighters, police officers and paramedics, raced to the scene.

The man - aged in his 40s - was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Tragically, he later died in hospital.

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A murder probe has now been launched by Greater Manchester Police. A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and section 18 assault, a spokesperson for the force said.

Detectives believe the incident was 'isolated' with 'no wider threat to the public'. After the blaze ripped through the property on Wednesday morning, at around 6.40am, crime scene investigators were spotted combing the area for evidence throughout the day.

A witness living nearby told the M.E.N that forensics, dressed in white suits, were seen going in and out of the house as they carried out investigations. Police want to speak to anyone with information about the incident, particularly anyone who was in the Dumbarton Green area on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Detective Chief Inspector Nicola McCulloch, of GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "Firstly, our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this incredibly sad time. We believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public.

"We are still in the early stages of our investigation, but at this time we believe this is an arson attack resulting in the tragic death of a man. Whilst we remain at the scene, speaking with residents and conducting