CCTV captures drive-by firework attack which left vulnerable woman in critical condition

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Police are looking for suspects in connection with an arson attack at a residential care home that has left a vulnerable woman fighting for her life in hospital.

The blaze was caused by fireworks which were thrown out of a car near the home in Beccles Drive, Barking. Police have released CCTV footage of the incident, which took place on 13 November.

In what police said was a “deeply upsetting incident,” 43-year-old Donna Stringer, who has learning difficulties and requires a wheelchair, was left in critical condition in hospital.

London Ambulance Service arrived at the home at 1am. The police and the London Fire Brigade were also called to the scene.

Although there were no further reported injuries, the care home was damaged by the fire and seven other residents had to be housed in alternative accommodation.

Police believe the unknown number of suspects also targeted other homes in the area with fireworks the same night.

“As you will see in the footage that we have released today, this was a deliberate act where fireworks were thrown at a number of homes,” said Detective Sergeant Karl Dines, from Barking and Dagenham CID.

"This is a deeply upsetting incident involving an innocent and helpless victim who has severe learning difficulties.”

"Donna is fighting for her life in hospital; medical staff are working tirelessly around the clock to keep her condition stable in the hope that she will recover,” said DS Dines.

With no arrests yet made, anyone with information regarding the incident is being urged to contact Barking and Dagenham CID.

"This was an extremely cowardly act on some of the most vulnerable people in our community. It was not just an attack on them but an attack on our whole community,” said Councillor Darren Rodwell.

"This kind of behaviour is not welcome in our borough and I am appealing to anyone with information to please contact the police."