Man Arrested on Suspicion of Arson After Brixton Storage Unit Blaze Closes Underground Station
A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a large fire broke out near Brixton London Underground station, prompting evacuations, station closures, and a significant emergency response.
The fire, which started around 9:40am, engulfed a storage unit on Electric Lane, just behind the busy Brixton Market. Dramatic footage posted to social media shows a fireball erupting in a back alley, as local residents and workers scramble to move bin bags away from the flames.
[block_2]
Tube Disruption and Road Closures
The incident caused major disruption across South London’s transport network:
- Brixton Underground Station was temporarily closed due to smoke travel.
- Stockwell Station was operating exit-only.
- Several roads, including Brixton Road, Atlantic Road, and Acre Lane, were closed in both directions.
Traffic continues to build up around Stockwell Park Walk and Brixton Hill.
[block_4]
Arrest Made at Scene
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of arson. He remains in police custody.
“Officers are currently supporting the London Fire Brigade following a fire at a building on Electric Avenue, Brixton,” a Met spokesperson said.
“No injuries have been reported. Surrounding buildings have been evacuated. A crime scene has been established.”
A Notable Location
Electric Avenue is one of the most recognisable streets in South London — known as the first street in the UK to be lit by electricity, and referenced in popular music and culture.
