A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a house fire in Handsworth, Birmingham, left three women hospitalised. The blaze broke out at a property on Paddington Road at approximately 2:45 PM on Sunday, June 7.
Incident Details
Three women were rushed to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital with potential smoke inhalation. A man was assessed by paramedics at the scene but was discharged.
Detectives arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of arson. He was questioned by officers and later released on bail while the investigation continues.
Emergency Services Response
West Midlands Fire Service responded swiftly, with three fire engines and a 4x4 brigade response vehicle from Smethwick, Handsworth, and West Bromwich attending. The first crew arrived within a minute of being mobilised. The fire, which affected a two-storey property, was out upon their arrival. Light smoke logging throughout the house was ventilated by firefighters, who left the scene at 4:35 PM.
West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene at 2:49 PM. Crews found four patients: three women assessed for smoke inhalation and conveyed to hospital, and a man discharged at the scene.
Police Investigation
A West Midlands Police spokesperson stated: "We've arrested a man on suspicion of arson following a fire at a property on Paddington Road, Birmingham on June 7. The 27-year-old was held following the fire, just before 3 PM. The suspect has since been released on bail while the investigation continues."
Appeal for Information
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact police by calling 101 and quoting log number 20/277483/26. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
