Four-Year-Old Girl Dies in Suspected Arson Attack in Manchester

A 44-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, say police.

A four-year-old girl has died following a suspected arson attack at a home in Manchester, police have confirmed.

Firefighters responding to the blaze in the Rusholme area at around 12:30 GMT discovered the child with serious injuries. She was rushed to the hospital but was later pronounced dead, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

A 44-year-old woman, known to the child, has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Whalley described the incident as "heartbreaking," offering condolences to the girl's family and friends.

"A woman has been arrested, and I can confirm that she was known to the child," Whalley said. "There is no wider threat to the community, and no other individuals are currently being sought in connection with the investigation."

Emergency responders "did their utmost best" to save the child, she added, praising firefighters for swiftly extinguishing the blaze.

Authorities have pledged a thorough investigation, vowing to "leave no stone unturned" in determining the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

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