Car set on fire on driveway as mum and young child slept indoors
Flames quickly spread to the front of the house
Last updated 27th Sep 2025
Police have revealed more information about a terrifying vehicle fire outside a home in Littleborough.
Officers were called to what they believe was a deliberate attack in Cleggswood Avenue at around 1.15am on 6 September.
A car on the drive way had been set on fire. Flames had spread to the front of the house as a mum and young child slept inside.
Police believe the offenders were in a vehicle which came from the Hollingworth Road direction and left the same way.
DC Mel Jeffery from Greater Manchester Police's Rochdale division said: “This was a terrifying and deliberate attack that could have ended in tragedy. A mother and her young child were asleep in their home when their car was set alight on the driveway, just outside the front door.
"The flames quickly spread to the front of the house, and it was only thanks to the car’s alarm that they were able to escape safely with their pets.
"The trauma they’ve experienced is unimaginable. They are safe, but shaken and deeply affected by what happened.
"We believe this was a targeted incident, and while there is no wider threat to the public, we are determined to find those responsible.
"I’m urging anyone who lives or works in the area to check their CCTV, doorbell footage, or dashcam recordings from around the time of the incident on 6 September. Even the smallest detail could be the missing piece we need.
"If you saw or heard anything unusual, or if you have any information at all—please come forward. Help us bring justice to this family and ensure those responsible are held accountable”.
One man, aged 42, was arrested on suspicion of stalking and conspiracy to commit arson. He was bailed pending further enquiries.
Police are asking members of the public who may have more information to come forward.