On Saturday, January 25, 2025, a jarring incident unfolded on Harrop Street in Abbey Hey, east Manchester, leaving a resident’s home severely damaged and a community shaken. At approximately 6:15 am, Ibrar Hussain, a 43-year-old care worker, experienced a sudden, violent crash that shook his house to its foundations. A stolen black Mercedes-Benz had plowed into his living room, leaving a scene of destruction.
Hussain, who had emigrated from Pakistan in 2010, described the terrifying moment, initially mistaking the impact for a storm or falling debris. The force of the collision was so significant that he compared it to an earthquake. Upon looking outside, he witnessed two men scrambling out of the wrecked Mercedes and fleeing in opposite directions. Fortunately, Hussain was alone at the time, having dropped his five-year-old son at his mother’s house the previous night. The incident left him without insurance coverage for his home, thwarting his plans to sell the property.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed the Mercedes had been reported stolen from a nearby residence on Butterton Drive. Officers apprehended a 19-year-old man on suspicion of burglary and several driving offenses. The search continues for the second suspect who escaped from the scene. The damaged car was removed from Hussain’s house around 9:45 am.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) detailed their response, dispatching two fire engines from Gorton station and a technical rescue unit from Ashton. Firefighters worked alongside GMP, Cadent Gas, and Manchester City Council to secure the damaged property. Their efforts focused on ensuring the structural integrity of the building and mitigating any potential hazards resulting from the crash.
This incident raises concerns about car theft and reckless driving in the area. The stolen vehicle, driven with apparent disregard for safety, caused significant damage to property and posed a serious threat to life. While thankfully no injuries were reported, the incident underscores the potential consequences of such criminal activity. The swift response by law enforcement and other agencies demonstrates a commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring public safety.
The incident left Ibrar Hussain dealing with the aftermath of a shocking and disruptive event. The damage to his home not only represents a financial burden but also disrupts his living situation and throws his future plans into uncertainty. The ongoing police investigation seeks to hold those responsible accountable for their actions and bring a sense of justice to the victim and the community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for collaborative efforts to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
