12-year-old boy arrested over fire in Rainhill
10 children escaped the blaze at a derelict gym on Saturday (17 May)
Last updated 19th May 2025
A 12-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life over a fire in Rainhill.
Emergency services were called to a derelict gum on the Scott Clinic site at around 20:00 on Saturday (17 May).
1\0 children between the ages of 12 and 13 managed to escape the fire unharmed, after it started in the building.
CCTV and other enquiries remain ongoing, and we are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward.
A 12-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and bailed pending further enquiries.
Detective Inspector Richie Shillito said: “Thankfully nobody was injured during this incident but we know this could have had a very different outcome.
“I would urge parents and guardians to please speak to their children and warn them of the dangers of playing inside derelict buildings.
“This incident is being treated as arson and enquiries are ongoing to establish how the fire was started and who was responsible.
"We are appealing to anyone who may have information which could assist the investigation to contact us as a matter of urgency.”
Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.