Investigation under way after van is found torched in Catforth

The van was found dumped in a lay-by in Moss Lane at 7.30pm, with the fire spreading to hedgerows along a nearby field, said the fire service.

Firefighters from Fulwood were called out to tackle the blaze, with crews in attendance for more than an hour.

No injuries have been reported, but detectives say that the white van is believed to be linked to a shooting in Dallas Street, Preston at around 6.50pm.

Police say gunmen opened fire on a terraced home in a "targeted attack", but had fired at the "wrong house". Nobody was injured in the attack.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said the cause of the van fire is still under investigation.

A fire service spokesman said: "Firefighters from Fulwood were called to reports of a vehicle fire in a field near Moss Lane in Myerscough.

"Crews found a van on fire in a lay-by. They used some holmatro cutting equipment, breathing apparatus thermal imaging camera and used a hose reel to extinguish the fire.

"The cause of the fire is now under investigation and firefighters were in attendance around one hour and ten minutes."

On Monday evening (February 22), detectives said the torched van holds a clue to find those who carried out the drive-by shooting.

Det Insp George Binns, of Preston CID: “We have launched an investigation following a firearms discharge in Preston.

“It is incredibly lucky nobody was hurt during this incident and I would encourage anyone who can assist our enquiries to come forward.

“We are particularly keen to trace any witnesses, or anyone with dashboard mounted camera footage which may have been recording in the area around the time of the offence.

“If you saw a white van or anyone acting suspiciously, please contact us.

“At this time we believe this was a targeted attack and there is no wider threat to the public. However, we know this will have been concerning for residents and we have stepped up patrols in the area.”