12-Year-Old Girl Becomes Third Arrest in Former Debenhams Fire Inquiry

Police investigating a fire at a disused Debenhams store have apprehended a 12-year-old girl, marking the third child taken into custody on suspicion of arson. The blaze, which occurred on Monday night in Guildhall Street, Canterbury, necessitated the evacuation of 30 individuals from nine adjacent residential units. According to Kent Police, the girl was apprehended on Wednesday evening and subsequently released on bail while further investigations proceed. A 15-year-old boy, previously arrested on Tuesday, has also been granted bail pending additional inquiries. Meanwhile, another 15-year-old boy, originating from Ashford, was released without any charges. Fire suppression efforts at the extensively damaged structure concluded at 15:30 GMT on Wednesday. During the peak of the incident, a total of eight fire engines, two height vehicles, and the technical rescue unit were deployed. One individual received medical attention from the South East Coast Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation. Officers from Kent Police have expressed their interest in speaking with anyone possessing pertinent information who has not yet contacted them. For updates, follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.