Fourteen teenagers aged 11 to 14 have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after the death of a 14-year-old boy in a fire. His body is believed to be that of missing Layton Carr. The incident took place at Fairfield industrial park in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, on Friday evening. 

Police were informed about a fire just after 8pm on May 2. Despite the fire being brought under control, a body was found inside the building, according to Northumbria Police. Eleven boys and three girls were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. The children remain in custody as inquiries are currently at an early stage. The authorities have asked the public to not speculate about what happened. 

Emergency services extinguished the fire, a short while after being alerted to the blaze. 

A police statement said: “Subsequently last night we issued an appeal for missing boy Layton Carr – it was believed he was in the area at the time.

“Sadly, following searches carried out by Northumbria Police and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, a body believed to be that of 14-year-old Layton Carr was located deceased inside the building.

“His next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specialist officers.”

Deputy Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an extremely tragic incident where a boy has sadly lost his life.

“Our thoughts are with Layton’s family as they begin to attempt to process the loss of their loved one.

“Our specialist officers will continue to support them in whatever way they can. We ask that their privacy be respected at this time.”

A cordon remains in place at the industrial estate while authorities carry out inquiries to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“I’d like to thank our officers and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for their efforts through the night,” the Det Ch Insp added.