Police announce man arrested in connection with nightclub fire in Milton Keynes

Police have arrested a man in connection with a fire at a nightclub in Milton Keynes.   

The arrest relates to a major fire that broke out at the Pink Punters nightclub on Watling Street in Fenny Stratford at around 2am this morning (26/04).

Thames Valley Police confirmed that officers were called to Watling Street to reports that the Pink Punters nightclub was on fire.

Firefighters from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue responded, and those attending the venue along with nearby residents had been safely evacuated by staff.

Police have said that the specific cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but also confirmed that a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The man remains in custody at this time.   

Fire crews and police officers remain on the scene of the incident while fire crews check for hot spots. Road closures are in place and are likely to remain in place for sometime.   

Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie LCU Commander for Milton Keynes, said, “This was a significant fire in which a large number of people had to be evacuated.  

“Thankfully no one was injured and staff at the venue worked quickly and effectively to safely evacuate everyone.   

“Fire crews and our officers remain on scene, and road closures are likely to remain in place for a significant amount of time.  

“Our officers have arrested a man in connection with this incident. He remains in custody at this time, while we carry out ongoing enquiries.   

“At this time it would be too early to comment on any particular motivation for this incident and we would respectfully ask for people not to speculate.   

“We would ask anyone with information in relation to this incident to please call 101 quoting reference 43260203265.”