Six people were taken to hospital after a suspected arson attack at a home in Sunderland.
Shortly before 4.10am on Thursday morning, police received a report of a fire at a home on Hendon Close.
Emergency services attended and the fire was extinguished shortly after.
The fire is thought to have been started around 3.40am and resulted in six people being taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, which officers are treating as suspected arson , and inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 82 14/11/19 or alternatively via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
