Boy, 14, dies in Gateshead fire as 14 young people arrested on suspicion of manslaughter

Police are questioning 11 boys and three girls all aged between 11 and 14-years-old over the death of a teenager following a fire in Gateshead on Friday as ITV News' Tom Barton reports

A 14-year-old boy has died in a fire near an industrial park in Gateshead, while 14 young people aged between 11 and 14 have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Teenager Layton Carr was found dead inside of a building near the Fairfield industrial park in the Bill Quay area on Friday night.

Eleven boys and three girls, all aged between 11 and 14-years-old have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. They have all been released on police bail.

Layton had been missing before his body was found in the building where the fire happened. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

A fundraising page has been set up to help Layton's family with the costs for his funeral.

So far almost £5,000 has been raised by almost 300 donations.

Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth said in a statement she sent her "heartfelt condolences" to Layton's family and friends.

Ms Dungworth said: "My heartfelt condolences are with the family and friends of Layton Carr at this devastating time.

"I’m being kept updated regularly by the Chief Constable and her team and would like to thank all emergency services involved in the response and ongoing inquiries."

ITV News' Tom Barton has the latest from the scene of the fire

Emergency services were called to the scene and the fire brigade declared a major incident for around two hours while they tackled the blaze.

Northumbria Police have confirmed that Layton Carr was found dead inside of the building, and that his next of kin have been informed.

The force had shared a missing person appeal for Layton earlier on Friday evening, believing he was in the area.

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

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"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."

Detective Chief Insp Jenkins added: "A cordon remains in place while we carry out enquiries to establish 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."

Members of the public who may have information that could assist enquiries should get in touch with Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media or by using the live chat or report form functions on the Force’s website.

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