DETECTIVES investigating an arson attack which threatened the lives of eight people have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

An eight-year-old girl was among a group which fled from a burning house in the Ensbury Park area of Bournemouth at 11.30pm on Monday March 18.

Two 4x4 vehicles parked at the property were vandalised before the fire started at the house in Newbury Drive and police have now revealed that three people dressed in dark clothing were seen in the area at the time of the incident.

Several people suffering from smoke inhalation were treated by paramedics and two pets, a dog and a hamster, died in the fire.

The terraced house was badly damaged and neighbours reported hearing an explosion and seeing flames.

Detective Inspector Becky Riggs of Bournemouth and Poole CID said: “This is a very serious incident and the occupants of the house are extremely fortunate not to have been badly injured or even killed.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or may have any information about those involved to contact police immediately. All calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Anyone who wants to contact Dorset Police can do so on 101 or call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Mobile phone tariffs may apply.

  • A 27-year-old woman and a 26-year-old man, both from Bournemouth, have been arrested and are currently helping police with their inquiries.