Three men arrested following deliberate car fire in Widnes

Three men have been arrested following a deliberate car fire in Widnes.

At 2.57am on Wednesday 7 September, officers on patrol came across a Kia Picanto car which was well alight on Hale Road.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene to deal with the fire.

While officers were conducting enquiries in relation to the incident, they were made aware of a live-stream which was being broadcasted on social media.

After reviewing the footage, further enquiries were made and officers gained entry to an address on Montgomery Road.

Three men from Widnes, aged 17, 19 and 24 were all arrested on suspicion of arson and possession with intent to supply class B drugs.

The 19-year-old was further arrested for criminal damage.

They have now been bailed pending further enquiries.

Inspector Rob McLoughlin said: “At this current time this appears to be a deliberate act that is believed to have been done wholly for the purpose of hits on social media.

“There was no regard for the safety of the local community or the owner of the vehicle.

“Thankfully as a result of the work of quick-thinking local officers, we have been able to identify three suspects in relation to the incident.”

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Cheshire Police via the Cheshire Police website quoting IML 1361109 or call 101.