Teen death leads to manslaughter investigation

A MAJOR manslaughter investigation has been launched after the death of a 14-year-old boy following a fire.

- DAVID HUNTLEY

Layton Carr's death was confirmed following searches by Northumbria Police and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service inside a building near Fairfield industrial park in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead on Friday.

A total of 11 boys and three girls aged between 11 and 14 have since been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Police say inquiries are at an early stage and members of the public are asked not to speculate online or in the community. A cordon remains in place at the site.

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

"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."

At around 8pm on Friday night, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service were called to Fairfield industrial park after reports of a blaze.