Detectives in Canterbury have launched an urgent appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage following a suspicious fire that tore through a derelict building on Valentine’s Day.
Emergency services rushed to St George’s Place at 2:16 pm on Saturday, February 14, as thick smoke billowed from the site, prompting a swift and dramatic response from local authorities to contain the scene. While Kent Fire and Rescue crews battled the flames, Kent Police officers moved quickly to secure the perimeter, implementing emergency road closures and orchestrating the temporary evacuation of nearby residents.
The investigation has seen significant developments, with two 14-year-old boys arrested on suspicion of arson. Both teenagers have since been bailed as officers continue to piece together the events leading up to the blaze.
The fire is officially being treated as suspicious, and investigators are now narrowing their focus on a critical window of time between 1 pm and 2:15 pm on Saturday. Detectives believe that drivers passing through the area or pedestrians who may have seen unusual activity could hold the key to the investigation. Anyone who was in the vicinity and may have captured dashcam footage or witnessed the moments before the fire broke out is being urged to come forward immediately.
Members of the public with information are asked to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/25824/26. Relevant footage can be uploaded directly via the force’s public portal, or reports can be made with total anonymity by calling CrimeStoppers at 0800 555111.