Photo: SCOPIX
Two people have been arrested in connection with the major fire at Folkestone’s Grand Burstin Hotel that forced mass evacuations and prompted a multi-agency emergency response.
Kent Police officers were alerted to the blaze on Marine Parade at approximately 1:20 am on Saturday, 19 September 2026, attending alongside fire crews to manage local road closures and assist with evacuating residents from the site and surrounding properties.
Fire at Hotel Burstin Photo: SCOPIX
On Sunday, 20 September, detectives arrested a 38-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman, both local residents, in connection with the incident. Both suspects have since been released on bail while inquiries continue.
Road closures and site cordons remain in place as forensic teams carry out investigation work, with police continuing to liaise with partner agencies to support displaced residents.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage captured around the time of the incident to contact Kent Police on 01622 652006 quoting reference 46/155727/26, or to submit footage directly via the public portal.