Two teenagers, both aged 13, have been apprehended in connection with a severe blaze that ravaged a shopping center in Leicester, leading to the need for partial demolition. The incident occurred at Thurmaston Shopping Centre on Barkby Thorpe Lane, where a fire was reported around 4:15 am on Saturday, June 20.

Upon receiving the fire alert, authorities dispatched eight fire engines, two aerial appliances, and over 40 firefighters to combat the inferno. The cause of the fire was initially undetermined. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and subsequent investigations by Leicestershire Police resulted in the arrest of the two boys on suspicion of arson.

Law enforcement officials indicated that the fire service continues to investigate the scene to ascertain the fire’s origin, which is being treated as a suspected arson case. Following the review of CCTV footage in the vicinity, the two 13-year-old boys were taken into police custody for questioning.

As the investigation unfolds, demolition efforts have commenced at the site, where six units, including popular stores like M&S and Greggs, were severely affected by the fire. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Leicestershire Police at 101, quoting reference number 26*359496.