A major fire broke out at a home furnishings store in Northampton (United Kingdom) on the afternoon of Saturday, 31 May 2025, prompting a large-scale emergency response and resulting in three arrests.
© Ilkin Guliyev | Dreamstime
The blaze occurred at the Dunelm store on St James Retail Park, with emergency services called to the scene shortly after 3pm. Fire crews from Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, and Lincolnshire attended, and road closures were enforced as a safety measure.
Northamptonshire Police confirmed they are treating the incident as arson. Three individuals have been arrested on suspicion of starting the fire and are currently in police custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Tuff stated: 'At the present time, we believe this fire to have been started deliberately and throughout the day, have made a number of fast-paced enquiries which has led to these three arrests.' He appealed to the public for information, particularly from anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or observed individuals in or around the store during the incident.
One key witness is believed to have seen people igniting fires in the store's toilets shortly before the blaze escalated. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
The fire was brought under control by 10:20am on Sunday, following an overnight operation by fire crews. A statement from Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service confirmed the situation had stabilised.
The incident caused significant damage to the store and disruption to neighbouring businesses, while also impacting the local workforce. Investigations remain ongoing.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com