Fourteen children have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the tragic death of a 14-year-old boy in a fire near an industrial estate in Gateshead, Northumbria Police have confirmed.
The victim, named as Layton Carr, was found dead inside a derelict building close to the Fairfield Industrial Park in the Bill Quay area on Friday evening (26 April). Officers launched an urgent investigation after the fire brigade declared a major incident and battled the blaze for several hours.
Three girls and eleven boys, all aged between 11 and 14, remain in custody as detectives work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Layton’s family have been informed of the devastating news and are being supported by specially trained officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, who is leading the investigation, 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.”
A cordon remains in place at the scene as forensic teams and fire investigators continue their enquiries.
DCI Jenkins added:
“I’d like to thank our officers and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for their efforts through the night. We are committed to finding out exactly what happened.”
Layton had been the subject of a missing person appeal earlier on Friday, which has now been formally linked to the fatal incident.
Police are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the fire to come forward.
Public Appeal:
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Northumbria Police via the live chat function or report form on the force website, or by sending a direct message on social media. Reference number 260425 should be quoted when making a report.
This tragic case has sent shockwaves through the local community, prompting calls for increased safety and support for young people in the region.
