Police have charged two suspects after a fierce fire ripped through the old Debenhams building in Canterbury’s Guildhall Street.
Fire Erupts in Busy City Centre
Kent Police were called to the scene just before 9pm on Monday, 2 December 2024, to back up firefighters battling the blaze. Roads were shut and nearby residents evacuated as crews worked to douse the flames.
Swift Arrests Follow Investigation
After several days of inquiries, officers arrested two 17-year-old boys suspected of arson. Both appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 17 March 2026.
Youth Charged and Bailed
The teenagers each face one charge of arson. They were bailed with strict conditions to return to court on Tuesday, 14 April. The investigation continues as authorities piece together what sparked the dangerous fire.
