Serious Incident Declared After Children Reported Ill in Leicestershire
Eight children were hospitalized amid concerns of mass poisoning at a Christian retreat in Leicestershire, prompting police to label the situation a “serious incident.”
A 76-year-old man was arrested by Leicestershire police on Monday and is being interrogated on suspicion of administering harmful substances after a child became ill during a summer camp.
Responding to the emergency, ten ambulances and helicopters were dispatched to Staythan Lodge near Planger Village on Monday, ultimately transporting eight children to the hospital. Thankfully, all eight were later released.
According to aide James Avery, “Officers communicated with the parents and guardians of the child who went to the hospital,” and confirmed the arrest of the elderly man under suspicions of administering poison or dangerous substances.
“He is currently in custody. The East Midlands Specialized Operations Unit is leading the investigation, which we recognize is detailed and sensitive. We understand the concerns this has raised,” said Avery.
The rural facility is owned by the Braithwaite Gospel Trust and had been rented out to another group for a youth summer camp.
The initial report of the incident reached emergency services from a “third party” on Sunday the 27th. However, services did not arrive at the lodge until Monday the 28th, which some considered delayed for what was later identified as a “significant incident.” Consequently, the village hall was used for the victims’ emergency triage, and police referred the case to the Independent Bureau for Police Action (IOPC) to investigate potential lapses in response.
Locals from Plunger Village expressed their shock about the incident. “It’s terrifying, feels like something out of a horror story. These kids, coming from tough backgrounds, were here for a lovely holiday, only to face something like this from those they trusted,” one said. Another added, “I watched as several kids cried upon entering the hall. It was like the worst nightmare for any parent, learning their child might have been poisoned at summer camp.”
