Couple with four young children flee arson attack

A YOUNG couple and their four children fled for their lives yesterday after an arsonist attacked their home in the early hours as they slept.

Neighbours heard screams from the house in Middlesbrough just before 6am as Charlie Loughan, 24, and her partner Lewis Bond, 26, raced to get out with their youngsters.

Witnesses said a trail of fire led from the hall down the path, suggesting the attacker had poured petrol through the letterbox and set it alight.

As fire crews tackled the blaze, the family were rushed to James Cook University Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation. They are thought to have been discharged last night.

A neighbour said: ‘I heard the man screaming “Charlie!” and the children were screaming “Daddy!” It was terrifying. There were little fires all down the garden path and I could see fire all in the hallway.’

A witness said: ‘It is a miracle that they woke up in time and got out of there. I dread to think what could have happened. What sort of monster would set fire to a house when there are little kids sleeping in there?’

Police have begun an arson investigation. Detective Inspector Rick Mansell, of Cleveland Police, said: ‘The occupants were asleep at the time. Thanks to those who raised the alarm, emergency services were quickly at the scene.’