A FIRE ripped through the top floor of a property after a suspected arson incident in a North East town.

Residents reported hearing an explosion as well as a window being blown out before seeing the vacant property alight.

Several houses on Mitchell Street, Hartlepool, were evacuated as firefighters and ambulance crews arrived on the scene just after 7.50pm on Sunday (June 19).

The Northern Echo: Mitchell Street, Hartlepool, where the incident took place Mitchell Street, Hartlepool, where the incident took place

Road closures were also enforced in the nearby area in the aftermath of the fire.

A juvenile male remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of arson.

Police are now appealing for information into the incident.

A statement from Cleveland Police added: “Residents later returned to their addresses and officers remain at the scene today whilst enquiries continue.

“We’d like to thank those residents and motorists affected for their patience and co-operation during the incident.

“A juvenile male was arrested on suspicion of arson and he remains in custody being questioned.

“We would appeal for anyone with information, cctv or dash cam which could help our ongoing enquiries to get in touch.”

Contact Cleveland Police via the 101-number quoting ref 105356 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at www.crimestopers-uk.org (tel 0800 555 111).

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