Two boys have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a large-scale fire broke out in Nottingham city centre.
The incident happened just after 10pm on Monday 5 October at a building in Market Street just above Escobar.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service was supported by officers from Nottinghamshire Police and East Midlands Ambulance Service.
Officers closed Upper Parliament Street, Goldsmith Street, Market Street and the surrounding area to protect the public and some properties were evacuated while our fire colleagues dealt with the large-scale blaze.
Two boys, aged 14 and 12, have been arrested on suspicion of arson and remain in police custody.
Officers are supporting the fire service while a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and to find out what has happened.
City commander Superintendent Chris Pearson said:
“This incident caused large-scale disruption to Nottingham city centre last night, but luckily no one was seriously injured. This is testament to the combined work of all emergency services coming together to protect the public from harm.
“While we are in the early stages of the investigation to determine how the fire was caused, we have arrested two boys on suspicion of arson and criminal damage.
“These arrests were made very quickly after we were called to the incident.
“Anyone who has not already spoken to us and has any information that could help with our investigation including dash cam or mobile phone footage is being asked to call 101 quoting incident number 0874 of the 5th October 2026 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Group Manager of Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, Richard Leighton, said:
“Emergency services were called to the fire just after 10pm last night, and at the height of the incident, we had 12 fire engines in attendance.
“Crews worked extremely hard throughout the night to get the fire under control, and they’re still working to ensure there are no hot spots throughout the building.
“A fire investigation will commence later today to assist Nottinghamshire Police with their investigations.”
