Fugitive sought over petrol attack sends birthday card to his mother
Fugitive sought over petrol attack sends birthday card to his mother
A suspect who went on the run after a woman was doused with petrol and set alight has sent his mother a birthday card. Stephen Archer, who is being hunted by detectives on suspicion of attempted murder, posted the card to his mother, Wendy. She has now appealed for her son, 50, to give himself up. In a tearful 20-second video appeal, she said: "Steve, I have got your card. I want you to know that no-one is controlling me and no-one is forcing me to send this message to you."
I know you think I am covering things up but I am not. I do not want any harm to come to you. Will you please contact the police.
Archer went on the run on Monday after the attack in Newton Heath, Manchester. The 49-year-old victim, reported to be Mr Archer's sister, remains in a critical condition after she suffered 70% burns to her body. Police have warned that Archer, from Openshaw, may be carrying several bottles of petrol and have asked petrol station workers to be "extra vigilant" and alert the authorities if they think they see him. Supt Arif Nawaz, of Greater Mancheser Police, said: "We can assure the victim, the family and the wider public that we are doing everything we can to find the person responsible and bring them to justice."
We have followed several leads and have received some very helpful information but unfortunately we have still not found him.
Supt Arif Nawaz, of Greater Mancheser Police