Teen Arrested After Blaze Destroys Historic Woolton Hall
A 14-year-old girl has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a devastating fire ripped through Woolton Hall, a Grade I-listed manor house in south Liverpool.
Firefighters Battle Flames Late Into The Night
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Speke Road at around 8.20pm on Tuesday, August 19, after reports of the 18th-century derelict building ablaze. Witnesses spotted a large group of youths in the area just before the flames engulfed the property.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service deployed multiple crews who fought the blaze overnight. They confirmed the two-storey stone manor suffered significant damage.
Police Launch Arson Investigation
A joint probe between Merseyside Police and the Fire Service revealed early evidence indicating the fire was started deliberately. The 14-year-old girl from Liverpool was taken into custody and later released on conditional bail as inquiries continue.
Detective Inspector Daniel McWhinnie blasted the incident as an “extremely reckless act” that has shocked the local community.
“This historic building has stood here for hundreds of years. We are determined to find everyone responsible,” he said.
“If you are a parent or guardian and your child was out that night, please check their whereabouts and what they may know.”
Call For Witnesses And Dashcam Footage
Authorities urge anyone who saw the group of youths or has dashcam footage from Speke Road on the evening of August 19 to come forward.
- Call Merseyside Police on 101, quoting reference 25000688649
- Report via social media: X @MerPolCC or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook
- Online at Report a Crime | Merseyside Police
- Or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Historic Woolton Hall Under Threat Again
Built in 1704, Woolton Hall is renowned for its historic and architectural importance. It has previously been targeted by vandals and arsonists. Campaigners have long demanded better protection for the treasured site.
Originally published by UKNIP.
