A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a significant blaze at an LGBT+ nightclub in Milton Keynes. Thames Valley Police received reports at around 2am on Sunday (April 26) that the Pink Punters venue on Watling Street was on fire. A large number of partygoers and local residents were safely evacuated by staff, police confirmed.
Details of the Incident
Video footage appears to show fire raging inside the upper floor of the building and rising high above its roof. Police stated that the precise cause of the blaze is yet to be established. Officers and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue crews remain at the scene, and road closures are still in place.
Arrest and Investigation
A 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and is currently being held in custody, according to police. Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, Milton Keynes commander, 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."
She added: "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."
Background of the Venue
Pink Punters has been in operation for over two decades, boasting dancefloors, an outdoor bar and karaoke nights, according to reports. The venue is well-known in the local LGBT+ community.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 43260203265.
