A devastating fire in Gateshead Close, near Rusholme, has claimed the life of four-year-old Lesma-Rose Wibier. The blaze broke out at around 12.35 pm on Sunday, March 2, leaving her family shattered as they paid tribute to their “smart and intelligent” little girl.
“Lesma-Rose was the star of the family,” they said in a heartfelt statement. Anyone who knew her knew she was the most beautiful girl inside and out. She always had a smile on her face and could put the same on others. She was such a smart and intelligent girl in her own unique ways, and she will be deeply missed by anyone who was blessed to meet her, “Manchester Evening News reported.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, as police confirmed that a 44-year-old woman, who was known to the child, was initially arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. However, she has since been rearrested on suspicion of murder.
Greater Manchester Police revealed that the woman has been detained under the Mental Health Act and is currently undergoing further assessment.
Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Whalley, from GMP’s Major Incident Team acknowledged the gravity of the case, stating, “This awful incident has seen the tragic death of a young girl, and I would like to send my condolences to her friends and family. Numerous emergency services attended the scene and all did their utmost to save her.”
She reassured the public that the case is being fully investigated, adding, “A woman has been arrested and I can confirm that she is known to the child. There is no wider threat to the community, and no one else is currently being sought in connection with the investigation. These tragic incidents will naturally cause concern, but I want to reassure the public that we are fully investigating the circumstances of the fire and will leave no stone unturned.”
Ben Levy, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) Area Manager, also expressed his condolences, saying, “Today (Sunday, 2 March), crews from Gorton, Moss Side, Salford, and Withington Fire Stations attended a fire at a house on Gateshead Close, Manchester. I want to pass on the condolences of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to the family and friends of the young girl who tragically lost her life following this incident. Our thoughts are with them during this sad and difficult time.
“We will work closely with Greater Manchester Police to support their investigation into this tragic incident.”
The heartbreaking loss of Lesma-Rose has left the community reeling, as loved ones struggle to come to terms with the unthinkable. With police vowing to get to the bottom of what happened, all eyes will be on the investigation as it unfolds.
