In a town in northeastern England, police have arrested 14 children aged between 11 and 14 following a tragic fire that resulted in the death of a teenager.
According to Northumbria Police, the group includes 11 boys and three girls, all detained on suspicion of manslaughter.
The deceased has been identified as 14-year-old Leighton Kerr, who was reported missing and later found dead inside a building in Gateshead, near Newcastle.
A police spokesperson confirmed, “Unfortunately, after an extensive search, the body of 14-year-old Leighton Kerr was discovered inside the structure.”
Authorities received reports about the fire on Friday night, and they emphasize that the inquiry is at an early stage.
“This is an incredibly tragic situation where a young boy has lost his life,” remarked Detective Chief Louise Jenkins.
A local resident shared with the BBC that it’s common for children and teenagers to trespass in industrial areas.
