Fire 'started deliberately' at home in Rushden
A man was rescued from the top floor of the property in the early hours of Sunday (22 February)
A fire that was deliberately set at a home in Rushden has prompted an investigation by Northamptonshire Police.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, shortly before 4am, at the property located next to the church.
Firefighters rescued a man from the top floor of the building, and he received medical treatment at the scene for smoke inhalation.
Northamptonshire Police were called to the scene after it was determined that the fire had been set intentionally.
Detectives are treating the case as arson with intent to endanger life.
Detective Inspector Richard Cheshire from Northamptonshire Police said they are seeking witnesses and anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage that could aid the investigation.
"We firmly believe this fire was started deliberately and it is only good fortune that prevented this from being a very much more serious incident," Det Insp Cheshire said.
"Further investigations are being carried out today both by police scenes of crime officers as well as colleagues from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service."
Police patrols in the area have been increased, and anyone with information is asked to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101, quoting incident 0090 of 22nd February.
The fire caused significant damage to the property, which is also situated near a primary school that remained unaffected.