started · updated
Folkestone hotel fire investigated as suspicious arson
A major fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, Kent, has led to the evacuation of approximately 280 guests and 90 nearby residents. The blaze broke out in the basement of the 550-room seaside property, owned by Britannia Hotels, in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Kent Police are treating the incident as suspicious and believe the fire may have been started deliberately. Detectives are currently appealing for witnesses and requesting dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area. While no major injuries were reported, one person was treated by ambulance for minor injuries.
Emergency services, including 26 fire engines from the Kent Fire and Rescue Service, responded to the scene. The intensity of the fire raised significant concerns regarding the structural integrity of the hotel, prompting the evacuation of residents from the adjoining Pavilion Court. Folkestone and Hythe District Council established a welfare centre at Three Hills Sports Park to support those displaced by the incident.
Entities
Britannia Hotels · Folkestone · Folkestone and Hythe District Council · Grand Burstin Hotel · Kent Fire and Rescue Service · Kent Police
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] A total of 26 fire engines attended the scene at the height of the incident. internewscast.com · metro.co.uk · www.independent.co.uk
- [● 3 SOURCES] A welfare centre was established at Three Hills Sports Park to support those affected. internewscast.com · metro.co.uk · www.independent.co.uk
- [● 3 SOURCES] Police believe the fire may have been caused deliberately. internewscast.com · metro.co.uk · www.independent.co.uk
- [● 3 SOURCES] The fire is believed to have started in the basement of the hotel before 1:00 am on Saturday. internewscast.com · metro.co.uk · www.independent.co.uk
- [● 3 SOURCES] Approximately 280 guests were evacuated from the hotel. internewscast.com · metro.co.uk · www.independent.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] One person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. metro.co.uk