Two 13-year-old individuals have been apprehended in connection with a severe blaze that engulfed a shopping center in Leicester, necessitating the partial demolition of the structure. The authorities were alerted to the fire at Thurmaston Shopping Centre on Barkby Thorpe Lane around 4:15 am on Saturday, June 20. Responding to the incident, eight fire engines, two aerial units, and over 40 firefighters were dispatched to combat the inferno, with the cause initially remaining undetermined.
In a subsequent statement, Leicestershire Police confirmed that no injuries were reported, and ongoing investigative efforts resulted in the arrest of two young boys on suspicion of arson. Law enforcement officials revealed that the fire service is actively investigating the scene to ascertain the fire’s origin, with detectives treating the case as a suspected arson incident. Following a review of CCTV footage from the vicinity, two 13-year-old boys were taken into police custody for further questioning.
Detective Inspector Jim Willoughby emphasized the importance of preserving potential evidence by conducting thorough inquiries, including interviews with witnesses and a comprehensive analysis of surveillance videos. Meanwhile, demolition operations have commenced at the site, where six units, including well-known brands like M&S and Greggs, were severely impacted by the fire.
Authorities reiterated that the investigation into the Thurmaston Shopping Centre fire led to the detention of two teenage boys suspected of involvement in the incident. Prompted by a fire report early on June 20, police and fire service personnel swiftly responded to the scene, ensuring no casualties occurred. As inquiries continue to determine the fire’s cause, law enforcement has focused on treating the matter as a case of suspected arson, culminating in the arrest of the two 13-year-olds who are now under police custody.
Individuals with relevant information are urged to contact Leicestershire Police at 101, quoting reference number 26*359496.