Fourteen children arrested over the devastating death of teenager Layton Carr in a blaze at an industrial park have been released on police bail.
The group — 11 boys and three girls — were detained after 14-year-old Layton’s body was found in a burnt-out building at Fairfield Industrial Park, Gateshead, on Friday night.
Emergency services rushed to the scene at around 8pm where firefighters battled the inferno for two hours. A major incident was declared.
At the same time, police issued an urgent missing persons appeal for Layton, who had last been seen an hour earlier at 7pm.
Tragically, his body was discovered within the ruins of the building, and his devastated family were informed.
A Northumbria Police spokesman confirmed today:
“All those arrested have since been released on police bail pending further inquiries.”
Layton’s headteacher paid tribute to the youngster, describing him as a “valued and much-loved” member of the school community.
Our school is heartbroken,” said David Thompson. Layton was a bright light in Year 9. He will be missed beyond words.
Heartbreaking tributes were left at the gates of the industrial park, including blue balloons shaped like the number 14 and dozens of bouquets.
One message read:
Rest in paradise Layton, always in our hearts. Fly high with the angels. Love you forever.
A GoFundMe page set up by a family friend to help with funeral costs had raised over £9,000 by Sunday evening.
Local councillors revealed concerns had long been raised over anti-social behaviour at the Fairfield Industrial Estate and nearby derelict sites.
They stated they had contacted Gateshead Council, Securitas, and emergency services in recent months about safety issues.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins said:
This is an extremely tragic incident where a boy has sadly lost his life.
We are committed to finding out exactly what happened.”
A police cordon remains in place as forensic teams carry out investigations.
Meanwhile, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth offered condolences, urging anyone with information to come forward.
How to Provide Information:
Witnesses or those with information can contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media, through the force’s website live chat, or by submitting an online report.
