Two more girls, 14, arrested after ‘cheeky, happy’ boy died in tragic industrial park fire

TWO more schoolgirls have been questioned after a "cheeky and happy" 14-year-old boy died in a horror fire last month.

Layton Carr's body was found after the blaze at an industrial park in Gateshead, Co Durham, on May 2.

Photo of Layton Carr.
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Layton Carr died on May 2 in an industrial estate fireCredit: Unpixs
Floral tributes at a gated industrial park following a fatal fire.
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Tributes laid outside Fairfield Industrial Park in the Bill Quay area of GatesheadCredit: North News and Pictures
Aerial view of a fire-damaged building.
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The blaze saw the warehouse guttedCredit: North News and Pictures

More than two dozen children have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the incident at Fairfield Industrial Estate in the Bill Quay area.

A total of 26 kids, aged between 11 and 14, have been detained as part of the investigation before being bailed.

The latest suspects questioned were two girls, both aged 14, Northumbria Police has confirmed.

A force spokesperson told The Sun: "I can confirm a further two girls, both aged 14, have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and have since been bailed."

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Layton was originally declared missing before cops confirmed he had perished in the fire.

Layton's family previously paid tribute to him in a statement released by police.

They said: "Layton was such a kind, caring and loving boy.

"From the minute he was born it was obvious the character he would turn out to be. Layton was your typical 14-year-old lad, a cheeky, happy lad.

"Despite his cheeky side Layton had an absolute heart of gold and would do anything for anyone.

"He was loved by all that met him, and it showed.

"He was a family boy that loved his mam and sisters more than anything in the world.

“Layton, we love you more than any words can ever explain. You will be missed more than you’ll ever know. Our bright and beautiful boy.”

They added: “As a family we would like to say a massive thank you to all that helped in finding Layton.

“A massive thank you to the police and all services involved.

"We’re incredibly grateful for the work that you do every day to bring closure to families like ours.”

Police have previously appealed for anyone who was at the industrial park on the night of the fire to get in touch.

Detectives have also asked for anyone with video footage relating to the incident to share it with them.

Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, said last month: “Our thoughts remain with Layton’s family at this devastating time.

“Our specialist officers will continue to support them in any way we can. We ask that their privacy be respected at this time.

“I would remind everyone not to speculate on details of the incident online or in the community – what might seem like a simple post on social media, could disrupt an on-going investigation.

“Circulation of malicious communications is classed as a criminal offence and those who choose to be involved could face prosecution.

“It’s also important to note that anyone suspected of a crime must not be named publicly for legal reasons and those who are under 18 have anonymity.

Thank you for your continued support and co-operation at this time.”

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Anyone with information in relation to what has happened, should speak to Northumbria Police directly by sending a direct message on social media, or by using the live chat or report forms on the Force’s website.

Those who can’t contact the Force online, should call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20250502-1124.

Layton's family described him as 'cheeky and happy'
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Layton's family described him as 'cheeky and happy'Credit: Unpixs
Damaged industrial buildings with a firetruck and car in front.
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Emergency services raced to Fairfield Industrial Park
Police vans and officers at the scene of a fatal fire.
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Police at the scene the following dayCredit: BBC
Aerial view of Fairfield Industrial Park in Gateshead, where a fire occurred.
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Layton was reported missing before his body was discoveredCredit: North News and Pictures