Man Arrested After Blaze Tears Through Southampton Bookstore

A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a lunchtime fire at a Waterstones bookstore in Southampton city centre.

Smoke Clouds Above Bar Street Draw Crowds

On Tuesday afternoon, hundreds of shoppers looked on as thick smoke billowed from the popular Waterstones store on Above Bar Street.

No Injuries But Serious Damage

Waterstones confirmed no staff or customers were hurt. However, the fire caused extensive damage to the shop’s interior.

Police Hunt Clues from CCTV

A 39-year-old local man is in custody being questioned over the incident. Police are carefully examining CCTV footage from the bookstore and surrounding streets to piece together what happened.

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