A significant fire broke out this morning (Monday, June 30) in a block of flats on Bedford Street, Gloucester, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Five fire engines and numerous firefighters were deployed to contain the blaze, which originated in a hallway.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service rescued two residents using ladders, while two others were guided to safety on foot. In total, six people sustained minor injuries, with two individuals requiring hospital treatment as a precautionary measure.
According to Gloucestershire Police, the fire appeared to have been deliberately set. Officers were alerted shortly before 10 a.m. and promptly evacuated residents as firefighters brought the blaze under control. Subsequently, two men in their 50s were detained and arrested on suspicion of arson. They are currently in custody undergoing questioning.
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Investigations are ongoing, and the police have lifted the cordon around the scene. Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have captured relevant CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage around the incident time to come forward.
The fire service reported that crews from Gloucester and Cheltenham utilized ten sets of breathing apparatus, three hose reels, and one main jet during firefighting operations. Emergency responders, including ambulance personnel and representatives from the Guinness Trust, were also present.
Police continue to investigate the cause of the fire and ask anyone with information to contact them via the dedicated online form or by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.