Detectives have slammed arsonists who put lives at risk after an attack on a shop in Oswaldtwistle.
The fire was started around 11pm on Wednesday August 11 at the West End Convenience Store on Blackburn Road.
Residents had entered the store thinking someone was trapped inside.
Police are treating the fire as suspicious and are carrying out a joint investigation with the fire service.
A 40-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and bailed pending further enquires.
DS Paul Langley said: "This was a reckless act which put the lives of nearby residents and other members of the public in danger. These people risked there lives thinking there may have been someone trapped in the shop. I urge anyone with information to contact the police."
Anyone who saw what happened or who saw any vehicles leaving the scene of the fire, particularly a white van, are being urged to contact police.
Officers are also appealing for anyone who visited the shop before the fire, to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
