Four arrested on suspicion of arson after fire at Burslem pub
They've since been released under investigation following the fire at The Leopard
Last updated 24th Jan 2022
Emergency services attended The Leopard, Market Place on Saturday to tackle the fire and a number of road closures were put in place. Neighbouring properties were also evacuated as a precaution.
Police arrested four men at the scene, all from from Stoke-on-Trent and aged 23, 30, 33 and 51, on suspicion of arson and burglary offences. They have since been released under investigation, pending further enquiries.
Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service are now working together to try and establish the cause of the fire. Structural engineers have also been called in-order to assess the damage.
As of Sunday evening, a stretch of Market Place, from the Old Town Hall to the junction with Wedgwood Street/Swan Square, remains closed. Parts of Queen Street and Clayhanger Street are also closed, with diversions expected to be in place for some time.
Inspector Matt Bennion said: “We would like to thank local residents for their patience and support as we continue with the investigation this afternoon.
“We know that this incident has impacted the community, as the Leopard is a renowned and historic Stoke-on-Trent building, but we kindly ask that the public avoid the area at this time.
“We have received reports of private drones flying over the site, which could potentially damage and interfere with professional drones operating to assist the fire service. You could also put officers at risk and be committing a criminal offence. We will be following up these reports and take action when appropriate.
“An emergency service presence is expected to remain at the scene over the next few days, with increased neighbourhood patrols also taking place.
“Anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire, or may have any information that could assist with our investigation is asked to get in touch.”
Any witnesses can message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 292 of 22 January, call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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