Five teenagers released on bail following Bideford terrace fire

Four boys and a girl aged between 13 and 15-years-old have been released on bail after being arrested in connection with the terrible fire at Honestone Street in Bideford which has left one man still unaccounted for.

Police said the teens, all from North Devon, were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. A man in his 30s, from Bideford, was previously arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and released on police bail.

READ NEXT: Breaking: Murder investigation launched following Bideford terrace fire

Detectives have said they are treating this as a suspicious incident ‘with murder as one of several hypotheses being considered’.

The next of kin of the man who remains unaccounted for has been informed and is being supported by specially trained officers.

The devastating blaze in the three storey terrace saw emergency services called at around 8.30pm on Tuesday (October 28) and 15 fire crews from across the region attended, with fire fighters needing most of the night to bring the fire under control.

Some 45 residents from the property and surrounding buildings were evacuated, with several still unable to return home at this time.

Above: The terrace was gutted by the fire. Credit: Graham Hobbs

Police said several agencies continue to work at the scene, including structural engineers.

DI Chris Lithgow, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, said today (Friday): “I would again like to reiterate our thanks to local residents - particularly those who have been displaced for their patience and understanding while we continue what is a very challenging investigation.

“Work is ongoing to reduce the cordon and allow for residents to return home as soon as possible when safe to do so.

“Those residents who remain displaced will continue to be housed and looked after.”

DI Lithgow went on to remind people drone flights over the location were currently prohibited.

He added: “The use of drones in or near the location poses a significant risk to the safety of emergency personnel and could hinder the investigation.

“We would again urge people not to speculate online regarding this incident and remind everyone that proceedings are legally active.”

Above: The investigation continues around Honestone Street. Credit: Graham Hobbs

READ NEXT: Bideford rallies around after fire rips through three-storey terraced house

Devon and Cornwall Police said anyone wishing to operate a drone for legitimate purposes in the vicinity of Honestone Street must contact them in advance to seek appropriate authorisation.

Unauthorised drone flights will be treated as interference with an emergency incident and may result in prosecution.

Anyone who has any information or footage which may help the investigation, or wishes to request drone operation, is asked to call 101 or visit the Devon and Cornwall Police website, quoting log 748 of 28 October.