Terrifying Arson Attack on Xmas Eve
Gerard and Sharon Crossen with neighbour Linda Carlton
The Crossen family at Clarence Chare had a lucky escape in the early hours of Christmas Eve when they were wakened by banging and shouting as three P.C.’s from Aycliffe tried to break into their home to get them away from a fire deliberately caused. The arson attack was started in the log and coal shed next to the house and flames were licking up the side of the house towards the roof when it was spotted by police driving past the house.
It was a stroke of luck for the Crossens as the police had taken a wrong turning when they saw the flames and immediately called in the emergency services while they tried to gain entry and get the family away from danger.
Sharon and Gerard Crossen have a family of five boys aged betwen 10 and 16 years and they are very grateful to P.C.’s John Donoghue, Simon Peele and Lindsey Robson who saved their lives. “Another 10 minutes and we would not have got out of the house” said Sharon.
A neighbour Linda Carlton heard the noise, smelt smoke and helped the police wake the family up and get them to safety.
“We were all fast asleep and totally unaware of what was happening. It is usually so quiet in this area and we are shocked” said Gerard.
The Police do not think the family was targetted and are putting it down to stupid late night revellers who thought it was a bit of fun to start a fire. There was evidence around the area that hooligans had been at work tipping bins over etc.
The police are investigating this serious crime and anyone with information is urged to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
