Five teenagers arrested in Nottingham over fire at disused care home
Boys aged between 14 and 15 being questioned on suspicion of arson
Five teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of arson after reports of a fire at a disused care home.
Police and fire service colleagues attended the scene, in Furze Gardens, St Ann’s, after the incident was reported shortly after 5.45pm on Wednesday (1 May 2024).
About 15 minutes later officers arrested a group of suspects nearby after searching the area. Those officers had quickly responded to another report of a gang of youths outside a shop, with one of them believed to be in possession of a firearm.
The youths were detained and two BB guns and some pellets were seized.
Five boys, aged 15, 15, 15, 14, and 14, were arrested on suspicion of arson.
One of the 15-year-old suspects was also arrested on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Another of the 15-year-olds was also arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm in a public place.
Police cordoned off Furze Gardens while fire crews tackled the building fire and ensured the property and surrounding homes were kept safe. No injuries were reported and inquiries remain ongoing.
Detective Sergeant Hannah Frame, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Arson can have catastrophic consequences and put lives at risk which is why we treat incidents like this with such seriousness.
“Thankfully, the incident was quickly contained after police and fire service colleagues swiftly responded.
“While our inquiries remain ongoing, we would urge anyone who was in the area and who may have information which could assist us with our investigation to please call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident 638 of 1 May 2024, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”