Fourteen children arrested after teenager dies in Gateshead industrial fire
Northumbria Police have confirmed fourteen children have been arrested, following the death of a teenager in Gateshead
Fourteen children have been arrested after a teenager was found dead following a fire at an industrial site in Gateshead.
Emergency services were called to the scene near the Fairfield Industrial Park in the Bill Quay area shortly after 8pm on Friday evening, after reports of a large fire.
The blaze was brought under control, but a search began for 14-year-old Layton Carr, who was believed to be in the area at the time. Tragically, a body thought to be his was discovered inside the building.
Northumbria Police confirmed that 11 boys and 3 girls, all aged between 11 and 14, have been taken into custody on suspicion of manslaughter.
They remain in police custody while investigations continue.
Detective Chief Inspector, Louise Jenkins, described the incident as "extremely tragic" and offered condolences to Layton's family, who are being supported by specialist officers:
"Our thoughts are with Layton's family at this incredibly difficult time. We're asking the public to give them space and privacy as they come to terms with this devastating loss."
A police cordon is still in place around the site as forensic teams continue their work.
Anyone with information that may assist officers is urged to contact Northumbria Police directly.
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