A police probe has been launched after officers swooped on a Merseyside flat to find a woman with serious burns.
The victim, 38, remains in hospital in what police termed a "serious condition" after suffering burns to her neck, arms and hands on Thursday night.
Police said emergency services rushed to her flat in Southport 's Derby Road after police received a report "a woman sustained burns injuries" just after 8.30pm.
The ECHO understands officers are keeping an open mind how the woman sustained the burns but foul play has not been ruled out.
A Merseyside Police spokesman said officers were keen for witnesses and anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously to come forward.
He said: "Emergency services were called at about 8.35pm to a report a woman had suffered burns to her hands, arms and neck at a flat in Derby Road. The 38-year-old woman is in a serious condition in hospital.
"Officers attended the scene and investigations into the exact circumstances of the incident are ongoing, including efforts to locate any potential offenders."
Anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC.
You can also call 101 quoting incident reference of 19100754943 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.
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