Two people have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a teenager was killed in a North Shields house fire two years ago.
Leah Casson, 18, died at the scene of the fire on Vicarage Street in the early hours of Monday, January 16 2023.
A man in his late teens was arrested by Northumbria Police the week on Wednesday, January 8 as part of the investigation into the house fire. A woman in her 40s was also re-arrested the same day.
Both have since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.
Northumbria Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Leah’s death, as well as the cause of the fire.
The scene of a devastating flat fire on Vicarage Street in North Shields, where Leah Casson died in January 2023
(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
Detective Inspector Mark Atherton, of Northumbria Police, said: “We very much continue to look into the circumstances surrounding Leah’s tragic death.
“The investigation into the cause of the fire is complex in nature – and two years on we remain committed to establishing what happened.
“A number of enquiries are ongoing, which led us to making the arrests we have this week.”
Det Insp Atherton added: “Despite the time which has passed, we would also once again urge anyone who may have information that could assist us to come forward. Any detail – no matter how minor it might seem – could prove to be extremely valuable.”
Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, or by using live chat and report forms on the force’s website. Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20230116-0067
Floral tributes that were left on Vicarage Street, North Shields for Leah Casson
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
Members of the public can also share information anonymously by calling independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.
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