Three Arrested After Massive Dunelm Blaze Sparks Chaos at Northampton Retail Park
Blaze Tears Through Dunelm Store
Thick black smoke filled the sky over Northampton on Saturday afternoon as a huge fire ripped through the Dunelm store at St James Retail Park. Flames erupted from the roof just after 3:00 PM, forcing evacuations at neighbouring shops including Pets at Home.
Shocking footage shared on social media showed the inferno quickly spreading from a corner of the roof to engulf the entire store. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours through the night, working tirelessly to bring it under control.
Arrests Made Over Suspicious Fire
Northamptonshire Police launched an immediate investigation and have arrested three people on suspicion of arson. Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Tuff said:
“We believe this fire was started deliberately. Through fast-paced enquiries, three individuals have now been arrested on suspicion of arson.”
Police are also keen to speak to a man who may have seen suspects setting a fire in the Dunelm toilets shortly before the main blaze broke out.
Firefighters Mount Massive Response
- At peak, 11 fire engines and two aerial ladder platforms from across Buckinghamshire and Lincolnshire joined the fight.
- Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service brought the blaze under control by 10:20 AM Sunday, but small hotspots remain and crews continue damping down.
Station Commander Rich Walding described the blaze as “very protracted” requiring a large-scale response. He warned the retail park would stay closed and urged everyone to avoid the area.
“We expect to remain on site throughout the day. The area remains closed and people should avoid the retail park for now.”
Chaos on Roads and Retail Park Shutdown
Towcester Road remains closed in both directions between St Peter’s Way and Shell Garage roundabouts and won’t reopen until Monday morning at the earliest. All shops at St James Retail Park are shuttered until further notice as damage assessments continue.
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
Officers are appealing for anyone who was near Dunelm around 3:00 PM on Saturday and spotted suspicious activity to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101, quoting the incident number.
Stay Updated
- Follow @NorthantsPolice for the latest on the investigation.
- Follow @NorthantsFire for emergency updates and safety advice.
