Appeal After Passenger Tries to Set Fire to Woman’s Hair on Merseyrail Service

Police are appealing for witnesses after a man allegedly tried several times to set fire to a woman’s hair on a Merseyrail service.

The incident happened on the 5.50pm Formby–Liverpool Central train on Friday 7 November, shortly after a man boarded at Waterloo. While sitting directly behind the woman, he is reported to have made repeated attempts to ignite her hair.

A fellow passenger seated beside the victim noticed what was happening and intervened, warning her about the man’s actions. The suspect left the train at Bootle New Strand station.

A 37-year-old man from Liverpool has since been arrested on suspicion of common assault. Officers are now seeking the passenger who initially alerted the victim. He later spoke to her again and is believed to have been travelling with a woman. Detectives think he may hold crucial information.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or is the passenger in question is urged to contact police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 657 of 7 November. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Image: British Transport Police