Bolton Eastgrove Avenue firebomb attack was ‘targeted’

Police said officers were called to Eastgrove Avenue in Sharples at around 9.20pm on Wednesday, June 10, after reports of a suspected arson.

Emergency services attended and all occupants were safely evacuated from the home. No injuries were reported.

The Patel family said they were left terrified after the attack on their home.

The fire happened last night at roughly 9.15 pm. (Image: Public)

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Sharples said: “Incidents like this are not acceptable in our community and no one should be made to feel threatened or intimidated. Thankfully, no one was injured, however, the consequences of this suspected arson attack could have been very different.”

Police said they believe the incident was targeted, but stressed there is no wider risk to the public.

Officers will carry out reassurance visits in the community as enquiries continue.

DCI Sharples added: “We understand this incident may cause concern within the community; we are working to find those responsible and bring them to justice. We believe this was a targeted attack, and there is no risk to the wider public. Officers will be providing reassurance with visits in the community throughout the day.”

The attack happened at a family home with footage showing a masked person throwing a lit object through a front window.

Homeowner Hassan Patel previously said his son had just taken the bins out when he saw two people on a motorbike nearby moments before the explosion.

His son, Umair Yusuf, described the fear felt by the family after escaping the blaze previously, saying they had a sleepless night following the shock

Fire crews from Bolton North and Farnworth stations attended the scene and worked alongside police to make the area safe, according to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Police are now appealing for witnesses, CCTV and dashcam footage.

DCI Sharples said: “Our enquiries to identify those responsible are ongoing, and we urge anyone with information that may assist our investigation to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting log 3561 of 10/06/2026, or contact police via the LiveChat service at gmp.police.uk. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.