THREE people escaped from a burning home following an alleged early-morning arson attack.

Police are investigating the fire, after being called to the home in Sunderland at 4.17am on Sunday, April 8.

A Volkswagen Scirocco parked on the property’s driveway is thought to have been deliberately set on fire, with the blaze spreading to inside the garage – where a Mercedes was parked – and then to the house itself.

Police say three people were sleeping at the time of the incident but were uninjured after being woken by alarmed neighbours.

They left the house in Torquay Road before the fire service arrived.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

A 46-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident and has been released under investigation.

  • Enquiries into the fire are ongoing. Anyone with information or who saw anything suspicious is asked to call 101 quoting log number 206 08/04/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.