Two 13-Year-Old Boys Arrested After Fire Destroys Part of Leicestershire Shopping Centre

Two 13-year-old boys have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire damaged part of Thurmaston Shopping Centre in Leicestershire. Over 40 firefighters responded, and demolition of affected stores began.

Fire at Leicestershire Shopping Centre Leads to Arrests

Police have apprehended two teenage boys following a fire that severely damaged a shopping centre in Leicestershire.

Emergency services responded to the blaze at the Thurmaston Shopping Centre on Barkby Thorpe Lane shortly after 04:15 BST on Saturday.

At the peak of the incident, more than 40 firefighters were engaged in tackling the fire, and authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported. However, a section of the shopping centre has since been demolished due to the damage sustained.

Leicestershire Police announced the arrest of two 13-year-old boys on suspicion of arson after reviewing CCTV footage. The suspects remain in police custody.

Demolition work on the affected part of the building began on Tuesday. It was confirmed on Wednesday that the stores Greggs, Card Factory, Mountain Warehouse, and Claire's were among those demolished.

A fire service investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

More than 40 firefighters were involved in the operation at its height

a high-reach excavator tears down a building made of brick — Image caption, More than 40 firefighters were involved in the operation at its height

Investigation and Police Statements

Detective Inspector Jim Willoughby stated:

"The fire service is still working to determine the exact cause of the fire but in order to ensure no possible evidential opportunities are lost, we have been carrying out a number of inquiries and are currently treating the fire as a suspected arson attack.

Part of this work has included speaking to people who were in the area at the time and reviewing CCTV in and around the shopping centre.

This has led to the arrest of two boys who will now be questioned by police."

The police force continues to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.

Community Engagement

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