Overview
- A large fire broke out at Thurmaston Shopping Centre just after 4.15am on Saturday 20 June and gutted several units.
- Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service sent eight engines, two aerial appliances and more than 40 firefighters to bring the blaze under control.
- The fire caused severe structural damage that forced partial demolition of multiple retail units, including premises that housed M&S and Greggs.
- Leicestershire Police say detectives have arrested two 13-year-old boys on suspicion of arson and are holding them in custody while enquiries continue, though one outlet has reported a third arrest that the force has not confirmed.
- Officers have asked anyone with information or dashcam footage to call 101 quoting reference 26*359496, and local traders face ongoing disruption as investigators secure the site.