Merseyside Police are treating a fire that broke out outside an Anfield off-licence on Wednesday evening as arson. Emergency services were called to Stanley Park News on Stanley Park Avenue South at around 9.50pm on July 1 after reports of a blaze.
Man hospitalised after smoke inhalation
A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that police officers on the scene managed to extinguish the fire before fire crews arrived, which occurred within one minute of the call. A man was treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation and subsequently taken to hospital. The shop sustained minor damage.
A cordon was established outside the premises overnight as investigators began their work. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward, and officers have been conducting house-to-house inquiries, reviewing CCTV footage, and carrying out forensic examinations.
Police appeal for witnesses
Detective Inspector Darren Hankin described the incident as an "incredibly reckless act" and said: "These are the early stages of our investigation, and we are keeping an open mind as to the motive. Thankfully nobody was seriously hurt but we are determined to find the person responsible as soon as possible. If you saw anyone making off or live locally and have CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage, please come forward."
Merseyside Police are asking anyone with information to contact them via their social media desk on X or Facebook @MerPolCC, or to report information through the force's website. Alternatively, members of the public can call 101 and quote incident reference 1201. The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.
