Second fire suspect bailed

- Fri 27th Aug 2004

An 11-year-old boy, arrested in connection with the doubly fatal fire at Norfolk Crescent, Hayling Island, was released Wednesday night (August 25) on police bail, pending further inquiries. He will report to police on October 12.
Another suspect was bailed earlier.

Further forensic tests and evidence gathering is taking place at the scene, and full investigations around the Hayling Island seafront continue today.

Post mortem examinations showed both men died from smoke inhalation. Neither man has been identified.

The major crime unit, based at Fratton, have drafted in extra house to house enquiry teams for the Operation Manual investigation.

Detective Inspector Philip McTavish is aware of the public inconvenience involved with such a major investigation.

He said: “We would like to reassure everyone affected by the fire, and those who have not had access to their homes, that we are doing everything we can to make our investigations thorough but quick so everyone can carry on with their daily lives.”

The major crime unit is urging any other witnesses who may know any background information on the fire at about 8pm Sunday August 22, to come forward and ring Fratton station on 0845 045 45 45 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

By forum user, Mat