Three boys have been arrested after fire tore through a disused school in Wigston. The former site of Birkett House School went up in flames yesterday, with the fire service being called out at around 4.45pm.
The blaze was burning out of control when firefighters arrived, and more fire engines were summoned to the scene. Nearby Launceston Road and Newgate End were closed while the flames were tackled.
Investigators from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Leicestershire Police attended the scene this morning to establish the cause of the fire. Police have now announced that three boys, aged 12, 14, and 15, have been arrested on suspicion of arson. They remain in police custody.
READ MORE: Investigation under way following large fire in Wigston
The investigation is continuing, and a cordon remains in place at the scene. Nearby roads have been reopened.
Smoke could be seen across Wigston during the fire, described as "large" by the fire service, with police asking local people to keep their doors and windows closed. Anyone with information relating to the fire is being asked to contact the police on 101 or report it via the police website, quoting crime reference number 23*183623.
Update 2/4/23: The arrested boys have been released on police bail.
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