Attempted murder arrest after 'linked' house fires

Police have arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder after three "linked" house fires in the same town in Leicestershire.

Emergency services were called out to the fires in Holywell Avenue - in Ashby-de-la-Zouch - at 07:05 GMT, Prestop Drive at 07:08 and Clifton Drive at 07:19 on Friday.

Officers said two teenagers and a woman were treated for burn injuries and smoke inhalation in hospital. Their injuries are not thought to be life-changing or life-threatening.

A 50-year-old man has been arrested and remains in custody, Leicestershire Police said.

Det Insp Jim Willougby believes all three fires were started by the same person.

"Our investigation remains at an early stage as we continue to piece together the circumstances behind these three incidents," he said.

"From what we know so far, we believe these incidents to be linked and deliberately caused by the same person."

Police have urged anyone with information to come forward.

The B6006 Smisby Road remains closed to all traffic and the fire service is advising all motorists to avoid the area and expect delays.

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