Teen Dies in Gateshead Blaze: Fourteen Children Held in Tragic Industrial Fire Case

A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Gateshead on Friday evening when a fire erupted at an abandoned industrial unit in the Fairfield Industrial Park, located in the Bill Quay area. Emergency services responded to the blaze, and after it was extinguished, a body believed to be that of 14-year-old Layton Carr — who had been reported missing — was found inside the charred remains of the building.

Following the discovery, Northumbria Police arrested fourteen children in connection with the case. The group consists of eleven boys and three girls, all aged between 11 and 14. They are currently being held on suspicion of manslaughter as investigators work to determine the circumstances that led to the deadly fire.

The fire broke out just after 8:00 PM BST at the 15-acre site situated along the southern banks of the River Tyne. Once an operational industrial facility, the site has since fallen into disrepair. Several buildings have been left derelict, and the gatehouse entrance was found smashed down, making the location an unsecured hazard.

Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, who is leading the investigation, described the situation as an “extremely tragic incident.” She extended heartfelt sympathies to Layton’s family and confirmed that specialist officers are providing them with ongoing support during this incredibly difficult time.

Jenkins urged the public not to jump to conclusions as the investigation is still in its early stages. A police cordon remains around the site, and a visible law enforcement presence will continue while forensic teams carry out their examination of the scene and surrounding area.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information about the fire or events leading up to it to come forward. Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation and patience as they seek clarity on how a boy's life was lost and what role, if any, the arrested children may have played.