An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson/criminal damage with intent to endanger life after a suspected explosion at a block of flats in Ipswich damaged several windows and forced residents to evacuate.
Police were called to Princes Street just before 8.45pm on Friday, July 31, following reports of the incident. Suffolk Fire and Rescue and the East of England Ambulance Service also attended. The property was evacuated as a precaution, and the road was closed for the safety of the public.
No injuries have been reported.
Arrest and police statement
The arrest came shortly after 9pm. In a statement issued before 1am on August 1, Suffolk Constabulary said: "At approximately 9:05pm an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson/criminal damage with intent to endanger life. He has been taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning, where he remains."
"Enquiries continue to establish the circumstances of the incident, however no injuries have been reported," the force added.
Road closure and appeal for information
Princes Street was expected to remain closed overnight, with a diversion in place for motorists, police said. The force added that the road was closed "for the safety of the public".
Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Suffolk Police quoting CAD 416 of 31 July via the force's website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
