Sussex Police arrest men after fire in Bognor Regis

The blaze in Station Road, Bognor, triggered a huge emergency services response last night and people had to be rescued from their homes.

Firefighters were called just before 11pm and were able to get the incident under control before midnight.

Sussex Police said they have arrested six men, aged 34, 37, 46, 47, 52, 60, from Bognor, on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Firefighters managed to get the fire under control before midnight (Image: Sussex News and Pictures) A spokesman said there will be an increased police presence in the area.

Two people who were rescued were cared for by paramedics.

A spokeswoman for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: "Last night at 10.48pm we received reports of a fire at a residential building in Station Road, Bognor Regis.

"Joint fire control sent five fire engines and a command support unit to the scene.

"Upon arrival firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the premises and rescued two people from the building. The casualties were given oxygen therapy before being placed in the care of crews from South East Coast Ambulance Service.

"The fire was extinguished using hose reels, jets and a thermal imaging camera, and the building was ventilated to clear the area of smoke.

"Our fire investigation officers were at the scene overnight and we are now working with Sussex Police to assist with their investigation."

A police spokesman said an investigation is under way.

A picture from the scene (Image: Sussex News and Pictures) “We were called to support the fire service at a fire outside a residential building in Station Road, Bognor Regis, at around 11pm on Thursday,” the spokesman said.

“The fire was put out shortly before midnight.

“Six men, aged 34, 37, 46, 47, 52, 60, from Bognor, were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

“The 37-year-old man was also arrested for assaulting a 47-year-old man. He suffered minor injuries.

“They all remain in custody at this time and an investigation is under way.

“An increased police presence can be expected.

“Witnesses or those in the area at the time or anyone with any information is asked to contact police online quoting serial 1340 of 24/10.”