Boy, 12, is arrested on suspicion of arson after huge fire in Crewe saw 250 homes evacuated and dozens more without power

A 12-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a huge blaze erupted in Crewe.

Emergency crews descended onto the scene after the inferno erupted at a disused warehouse on Frances Street at around 4:15pm on Friday.

Firefighters are still trying to tackle the fire today,wearing breathing apparatus and using hose reel jets to do so. No injuries have been reported.

Some residents remain unable to return to their homes and are using Crewe Lifestyle Centre as temporary shelter.

With more than 250 homes evacuated and 150 properties without electricity,the force added that they are 'working hard' to return displaced residents to their homes.

Police and fire crews at the scene in Crewe earlier on Friday

Here’s an update from Area Manager Tony O’Dwyer who is at the scene of the large fire in Crewe.

For full details of the incident please visit our website 👉 https://t.co/2fcqMWrqvh pic.twitter.com/3oBZgASvOP

— Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (@CheshireFire) August 10,2024

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: 'Cheshire Fire and rescue are currently dealing with a large commercial building fire in Crewe.

'We have multiple patrols on scene with a cordon in place to ensure the safety of nearby residents.

'Please evacuate the area as directed by officers while fire crews are tackling the fire.'