The body of missing 14-year-old Layton Carr was found inside a building in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, after it was on fire – 14 youngsters have since been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter
Fourteen youngsters have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a missing boy died in a fire.
The teens were apprehended after the body of Layton Carr, 14, was found inside a building on Fairfield Industrial Park in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. Firefighters rushed to the scene just before 8pm on Friday and put out the blaze. Police issued an appeal for Layton in the early hours of this morning after he went missing at about 7pm last night. But officers have since confirmed he was found dead in the building following the fire.
Officers have since apprehended 11 boys and three girls aged between 11 and 14 on suspicion of manslaughter. They all remain in police custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an extremely tragic incident where a boy has sadly lost his life. Our thoughts are with Layton’s family as they begin to attempt to process the loss of their loved one.
“Our specialist officers will continue to support them in whatever way they can. We ask that their privacy be respected at this time.”
Detective Chief Insp Jenkins added: “A cordon remains in place while we carry out enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. I’d like to thank our officers and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for their efforts through the night.”
On Friday, the Tyne and Wear Rise and Rescue Service (TWFRS) declared a “major incident” after the fire broke out. The brigade urged people to stay away and for locals to keep their windows and doors closed, reports Mirror affiliate ChronicleLive.
Flames could be seen engulfing the buildings entrance with smoke being seen rising toward the River Tyne. The major incident was stood down at about 1.43am today.
In a statement shared to social media, the TWFRS said: “Our major incident has now been stood down and a normal response to incidents has resumed.” During the major incident, the fire service said it was only responding to “life or property risk incidents.”
Members of the public who have any information that could help police with their investigation are encouraged to get in touch with Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media or by using the live chat or report form functions on the force’s website. Those who can’t contact the force online should call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20250502-1124.
