Shania Care-Slede: Woman, 20, charged with aggravated arson over devastating moor fire
A 20-year-old woman has been charged with arson over a bushfire that has been burning near Manchester since Saturday.
Shania Care-Slede of Hyde was arrested Monday and is now charged with aggravated arson, recklessness as to whether life is endangered and dangerous driving.
He was taken into custody and is expected to appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday afternoon.
The fire near Dovestone Reservoir broke out over the weekend and has since been declared a major incident.
This is one of three major bushfires affecting Manchester, with many people in the city reporting smoke and a burning smell.
In Derbyshire, a major incident was declared at Tintwistle Moor on Sunday; A persistent fire here that started on June 24 has already destroyed more than 240 hectares (600 acres) of woodland and moorland.
Meanwhile, smoke from a bushfire near Mount Conwy in North Wales has drifted towards Greater Manchester, prompting the evacuation of 36 homes.
While North Wales Fire and Rescue Service withdrew its major incident declaration on Monday, crews remain on site to monitor conditions.
The National Fire Chiefs Council says 19 bushfires are currently active in England and Wales.
Manchester Police said the fire at Dovestone Reservoir remains under investigation, with officers trying to identify any other people who may have been involved.
Detective Inspector Andrew Day said: “While we have laid charges against an individual, our investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are carefully examining all available evidence to identify any other individuals who may have been involved in crime in connection with this incident.
“We are determined to pursue all those responsible.
“I would also like to thank the public for their support so far and encourage anyone with information or footage that could assist our investigations to come forward.”
Police have urged the public to avoid speculation on the internet as criminal investigations are currently active.
It was also stated that the community shared a “significant amount” of video footage, which detectives carefully examined.
Anyone with further images or information that could assist the investigation is asked to email them. Dove Stones Fire Proof Submission Portal.
