Teen Charged After Blaze Rips Through Prestigious London School
16-Year-Old Student Held Over London Oratory Fire
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with arson following a major fire at the London Oratory School, a renowned Catholic school in Fulham, west London. The blaze broke out in the atrium on Wednesday morning, causing significant damage but no reported injuries.
Fire Erupts at Historic School Known for High-Profile Alumni
The emergency call came at around 10 a.m. to the London Fire Brigade, who dispatched ten fire engines and over 70 firefighters to the 160-year-old institution on Seagrave Road. Ambulance and police units also rushed to the scene as the fire tore through the atrium, an area added to the school buildings in 2016 and home to four classrooms and the library.
Library Devastated, Investigation Underway
The fire gutted the library’s valuable books and education materials. Thankfully, no students or staff were hurt. The London Ambulance Service urged locals nearby to keep windows shut as a safety precaution while the blaze was tackled and brought under control.
Police Probe Continues Amid Community Concern
The arrested teenager, believed to be a pupil, now faces investigation as authorities work to determine the exact cause of the fire. Local MP Greg Hands voiced his worries and said he had been in contact with police, commenting on the increased helicopter activity over the area.
The London Oratory School is famed for its academic excellence and notable former pupils, including politicians Tony Blair and Nick Clegg, actor Simon Callow, and trade unionist Mick Whelan. The school is also located close to Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium.
