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A devastating fire at an industrial unit in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead has resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and the arrest of fourteen children on suspicion of manslaughter. The body, believed to be that of Layton Carr, who had been reported missing, was discovered inside the building after emergency services extinguished the blaze on Friday evening.
Northumbria Police confirmed that eleven boys and three girls, all aged between 11 and 14, are currently in police custody. The fire broke out near Fairfield industrial park, prompting a swift response from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins of Northumbria Police expressed the profound sadness surrounding the incident, stating, "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."
Police are urging the public to refrain from speculating about the incident online or within the community, as inquiries are still in their early stages. The circumstances surrounding the fire and the involvement of the arrested children are under investigation.
