A teenager has been arrested in connection with a series of fires at large derelict buildings in Norfolk, England. One of the blazes occurred at the Trowse pumping station and required 42 firefighters to extinguish. Another fire took place at a disused hospital in Thorpe St Andrew and a third at the Deal Ground site in Trowse. Initial investigations were hindered by the dangerous condition of the sites. The teenager was taken into custody on November 16 and has been released on bail with strict conditions.
The fire at the Trowse pumping station, a grade II listed building, was particularly challenging to extinguish, with crews working through the night and into the early hours of the morning. Similarly, the fire at the disused hospital in Thorpe St Andrew required the presence of 42 firefighters throughout the day. The fire at the Deal Ground site in Trowse resulted in significant damage to a former industrial estate slated for redevelopment. Initial investigations suggested the fires were cases of arson, prompting a police investigation.
Following the arrest of the teenager in connection with the fires, he has been released on bail with certain conditions. These include a clause preventing him from entering any derelict buildings, as well as a curfew from 9pm to 6am. These measures have been put in place as the police continue their investigation and appeal to the public for any information or footage that may help to identify other suspects or gather evidence.
The series of fires at derelict buildings has prompted concerns about arson and the need for tougher action to deter such incidents. The dangerous and abandoned nature of derelict buildings can make them prime targets for arson, as evidenced by the recent fires in Norfolk. The police are urging anyone with information about the fires or the individuals responsible to come forward and assist in the investigation.
