18-Year-Old Arrested Following Fire at Disused Nightclub

Police have taken an 18-year-old male into custody on suspicion of arson, following a fire that erupted within a building previously operating as a nightclub. Emergency responders from various parts of Wiltshire were summoned at 03:44 GMT on Thursday, responding to notifications of a blaze within the structure formerly known as the Lava Lounge, located on Fleet Street in Swindon. Approximately 50 firefighters were present at the location starting at 04:00 GMT to manage the fire, and road closures were implemented, according to Wiltshire Police. The police force stated that the individual remains in custody, and investigations into the origin of the fire are continuing. The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service reported discovering a “well-developed” fire within the premises upon their arrival. Throughout the day, multiple bus routes were rerouted, and Fleet Street, Holbrook Way, and Milford Street were shut down. Wiltshire Police has appealed to anyone possessing CCTV footage or relevant information to get in touch with them. BBC Wiltshire can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story concepts may be sent to them via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.