A WITNESS has come forward to say she heard someone running away from the scene minutes after a fire broke out which claimed the life of an 11-year-old boy.

Detectives investigating the murder of Dean Pike hope the information could provide a breakthrough in the case.

The schoolboy died after an arson attack on his home at Mordey Close, in the Hendon area of Sunderland, in the early hours of Friday, June 24, after lighter fuel was used to start a fire at the front door.

Despite the murder having shocked the community, police said that initial appeals for help in tracing the killer were met with a disappointing response from the public.

Detectives have pinpointed the time of the attack at 12.55am.

Now, more than a week after the attack, a woman has come forward to say she heard footsteps running along nearby Deerness Road, away from the scene and towards the health centre, at 12.57am.

Detective Superintendent Barbara Franklin, the officer leading the inquiry, said: "I would like to appeal to anyone who might also have heard or seen anyone running along Deerness Road towards the health centre to come forward as soon as possible.

"If you believe you were that person, then please come forward so we can eliminate you from our inquiries."

Police yesterday said that Dean's mother, Janine Dodd, was still recovering from her ordeal.

It is understood that she now knows that her son died in the fire.

The 29-year-old - who is six months pregnant - suffered serious burns and head injuries after jumping from an upstairs window to escape the flames.

A police spokesman said: "She is continuing to make steady progress in Newcastle General Hospital, although it will be a few weeks before she is out of hospital."

Anyone with information on the murder is asked to ring police on 0191-454 7555, extension 66718, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.