A court appearance is pending for a woman facing arson charges amidst two significant wildfires near Manchester. Firefighters have been combatting the fires at Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham and Tintwistle Moor near Glossop. The massive plumes of smoke rising near the sites have raised concerns about local air quality.
Following the arrest of a 20-year-old woman in connection with the Dovestone wildfire, Shania Care-Slede from Market Street, Hyde, has been charged with aggravated arson, endangering life recklessly, and dangerous driving. She is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on July 14.
A spokesperson from the Greater Manchester Police mentioned that the charges are related to the ongoing investigation of the fire at Dovestones Reservoir. Authorities are actively pursuing leads and seeking out other potential individuals involved in the incident.
Efforts to contain the fires at Dovestone and Tintwistle continue as plumes of smoke blanket several parts of Greater Manchester. Around 70 firefighters, 11 fire engines, and four wildfire units have been deployed to combat the flames.
Detective Inspector Andrew Day emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation and urged the public to provide any information or footage that could aid in the inquiries. The wildfire at Tintwistle, which started nearly three weeks ago, has already consumed an area equivalent to 350 football pitches.
Shania Care-Slede is not linked to the Tintwistle fire. The firefighting operations are expected to persist for an extended period. Officials announced that ‘full operations’ would resume the following day.