Man critical after being set on fire on his doorstep

26 September 2019, 22:19

The victim was attacked at his home in Waverly, Lancashire
The victim was attacked at his home in Waverly, Lancashire. Picture: PA
Nick Hardinges

By Nick Hardinges

A man is fighting for life after being doused in a flammable substance in a "targeted" attack in West Lancashire.

Police said the man, 48, was soaked in an accelerant and set alight in the attack.

Officers launched an attempted murder inquiry after being called at roughly 1am on Thursday.

The incident took place at the victim's home in Skelmersdale, West Lancashire.

Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Stables, leading the investigation, said: "This is a horrific incident which has left a man in a very poorly condition in hospital.

"We are carrying out a number of enquiries to try to identify those responsible.

"While we are trying to establish a motive for what has happened, we do believe that the incident was targeted and I would like to stress that I don't believe there is any threat to the wider community at this time.

"Someone out there knows who has done this and I would urge them to come forward and speak to us.

"Has a loved one come home acting suspiciously, smelling of smoke or petrol or with unexplained injuries?

"We need to find the people responsible for this dreadful crime."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting log 0068 of September 26.