Two streets in Sunderland are set to be closed for "weeks" after a fire caused structural damage to a building in the Hendon area. The emergency services were called to Villiers Street in the city on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 24, after reports of a fire. The incident took place at around 4pm.
A number of homes near the premises were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Residents have since returned to their homes, but emergency services found that the fire has "severely impacted the structural integrity" of the building.
Investigation Underway
Northumbria Police confirmed that initial checks to see if anyone had been inside were carried out, but the priority now is to make the building safe enough for more detailed searches. Police are working with partner agencies to establish the cause of the fire.
Villiers Street and Coronation Street remain closed, and officers said they "will be for a number of weeks whilst investigations are ongoing."
Quote from Police
Det Insp Rachael Rutherford of Northumbria Police said: "Our investigation into the cause of this fire remains in its early stages and we are continuing to work closely with colleagues from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, Sunderland City Council and other partner agencies to establish exactly what happened."
"Given the complexity of the investigation and the need to ensure the safety of everyone involved, Villiers Street and Coronation Street will remain closed for a number of weeks. We understand the disruption this may cause to residents, businesses and road users, and we would like to thank the community for their continued patience and support."
"Our priority is to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident. We would ask anyone who may have information which could assist our enquiries to come forward and speak to officers."
Firefighting Conditions
At the time, during the recent heatwave, firefighters were said to be working in "extreme conditions" to tackle the blaze.
Appeal for Information
Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, using live chat or report forms on the Force's website, or by calling 101, quoting reference number NP-20260624-0811.
