Tragic Fire Claims Life of 14-Year-Old Boy; 14 Children Arrested in Gateshead
A devastating fire at Fairfield Industrial Park in Gateshead, England, has resulted in the death of 14-year-old Layton Carr and the arrest of 14 children aged between 11 and 14 on suspicion of manslaughter. The incident occurred on the evening of May 2, 2025, when emergency services responded to reports of a blaze at the industrial estate. Layton, who had been reported missing earlier that day, was tragically found deceased inside the burned building. Global News+15Latest news & breaking headlines+15The Sun+15LBC+5Yahoo News+5The Guardian+5People.com+1The Sun+1
Northumbria Police arrested eleven boys and three girls in connection with the incident. All have since been released on bail pending further investigation. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the circumstances leading to the fire but have emphasized the ongoing nature of the inquiry. Crimewatch UK+13The Irish Sun+13Latest news & breaking headlines+13People.com
Layton was a Year 9 student at Hebburn Comprehensive School, where he was described as a “valued and much-loved” member of the school community. His death has deeply affected classmates, teachers, and neighbors, who have set up memorials and tributes at the site. A GoFundMe campaign created to assist his mother has raised over £113,000. The Guardian+1The Sun+1People.com+1The Guardian+1
The Fairfield Industrial Park, where the fire occurred, had been a site of concern for local residents due to neglect and frequent trespassing by teenagers. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward to aid the investigation. LBC+12People.com+12Yahoo News+12
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins described the incident as “extremely tragic” and emphasized the importance of community support during this difficult time. She also urged the public not to speculate or share potentially harmful information online, reminding that spreading misinformation or naming underage suspects can be criminal offenses. People.com+4Latest news & breaking headlines+4The Sun+4The Irish Sun
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life and seeks answers to prevent such tragedies in the future.
