Arrest made over suspected arson at high-rise block in Brighton

Firefighters from Preston Circus, Hove, Lewes and Newhaven fire stations were called to tackle the blaze at Wiltshire House, Lavender Street, Brighton at 06.46am on Sunday morning (February 3).

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said eight firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fifth-floor fire, and rescued one person.

Brighton high-rise fire: man rescued and residents evacuated

This morning (February 4), a police spokesperson said: “At about 7.13am on Sunday (February 3), police were called by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service to a report of a fire at a block of flats in Lavender Street, Brighton.

“The fire, believed to have been caused deliberately, was in the communal area.

“One resident was rescued from his balcony by firefighters, however no other flats were affected and there was no requirement for an evacuation.

“A 27-year-old man from Brighton has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and released under investigation pending further enquiries.”