Two dogs and 10 puppies have died after a fire broke out in a flat in Leigh.
The blaze broke out at the property on Chapel Street at around 9am yesterday morning (Sunday). Emergency services including at least four fire engines, paramedics and police officers rushed to the scene.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed this morning that 12 dogs tragically died in the fire. Officers are now trying to find their owner.
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A small cannabis farm was found in the flat, the police statement added. No arrests have been made.
Two people from neighbouring properties were treated at the scene by paramedics for smoke inhalation. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Chapel Street was closed off for several hours yesterday as emergency services responded to the blaze. The road was shut off between Warrington Road and Astley Street.
A fire scene investigation van was pictured at the scene, as well as several other fire response vehicles. In a statement, a GMP spokesperson said: "Officers were called just after 9am on Sunday 22 May to reports of fire involving a property on Chapel Street, Leigh. Two people from neighbouring properties were treated at the scene by NWAS for smoke inhalation.
"Sadly, 12 dogs, including 10 puppies, died as a result of the fire and efforts are ongoing to find the owner. A small cannabis farm was found in the flat - enquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made."
In a statement issued yesterday, a spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: "Just after 9am this morning (Sunday 22 May) firefighters were called to reports of fire involving a property on Chapel Street, Leigh. Fire crews from Atherton, Agecroft, Eccles, Farnworth, Hindley, and Rochdale arrived quickly at the scene.
"Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus, and using three hose reels and other specialist equipment, worked hard to extinguish the fire and escorted two casualties from a neighbouring property to safety. GMFRS were in attendance for just over four hours.”
