14-year-old held over fatal fire in Leicester, released with no further action

Police are calling the investigation "complex and tragic"

Author: Olivia MounsorPublished 27th Sep 2024

A 14-year-old girl's been released following a fatal fire at a house in Leicester earlier this month, with police concluded that "no criminal act" has been committed.

The girl was arrested after a person died in a fire on Bedale Drive on the 10th September.

Officers say work is still ongoing to formally identify the person who died.

A file is now being prepared for the Coroner.

Detective Inspector Michael Chandler said: “This investigation has been complex, tragic and completely heartbreaking. Our thoughts remain with the family and all those who are going through the most difficult and unimaginable time. The family has asked for privacy at this time and we ask that this is please respected.

“We have carried out extensive and thorough enquiries with the fire service and scientific experts over the past few weeks in order to establish the circumstances of the fire and to find answers for the family as quickly as we could. Following these enquiries, the investigation has concluded that no criminal act has been committed. A file will now be prepared for HM Coroner."

Simon Holden, Area Manager Response, said, “This is a terribly sad incident, and the thoughts of all of us at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time".

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