Jon Macpherson

A 13‑year‑old boy, Coby Keogh, died from injuries sustained in a house fire in Blackpool, while 19‑year‑old Joey Gregory remains in critical condition. Police and fire investigators believe the blaze was caused by an e‑bike, with no evidence of third‑party involvement. Three others received minor injuries, and a file is being prepared for the coroner as the investigation continues.

A couple in Brierfield received suspended prison sentences and a ten‑year animal ownership ban after CCTV showed them throwing their elderly dog Maddie into the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in a bin bag. The dog was rescued but later euthanised due to severe neglect-related conditions. Police also removed malnourished kittens and a corn snake from their unhygienic home, with one kitten subsequently euthanised. The RSPCA praised emergency responders and members of the public for their intervention, while the surviving animals were rehomed.