In a dramatic turn of events that reads like a soap opera plot, former EastEnders star John Altford has been arrested following a major fire that tore through a historic London pub. The actor, famed for playing gangster Johnny Allen in the BBC soap, was detained by Metropolitan Police on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
The blaze erupted at the Grade II-listed Rising Sun pub in Tottenham, North London, in the early hours of the morning. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as flames engulfed the building, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
London Fire Brigade deployed a massive emergency response, with ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters racing to the scene. Crews worked tirelessly for hours to bring the ferocious fire under control. A spokesperson confirmed that the entire first floor and half of the ground floor were severely damaged by the flames.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest, stating: "A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody at a north London police station."
Local residents expressed their shock and devastation at the loss of the historic local landmark. One neighbour told reporters, "The noise was unbelievable – it sounded like a war zone. It's a terrible loss for the community."
Altford, 62, is best known for his chilling portrayal of Johnny Allen, a ruthless gangland boss who met a dramatic end in EastEnders in 2006. His character was involved in some of the soap's most memorable storylines, including the deaths of Dennis Rickman and Andy Hunter.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with forensic teams expected to examine the scene once it has been made safe. The incident has left a community in mourning for a cherished local institution and raised serious questions about the protection of London's historic buildings.
