A 14-year-old boy whose body was found after a large fire in Gateshead, Britain, was “valued and much loved”, his head teacher said.
Fourteen children have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter over the death of Layton Carr, from South Tyneside. His body was found after emergency services were called to a fire in a building near Fairfield industrial park on Friday night.
The death of the teenager, who was a year-nine pupil at Hebburn comprehensive school in Hebburn, had devastated the school community, said its head teacher David Thompson.
“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the tragic loss of one of our pupils, Layton Carr, following an accident on Friday night, as reported in the news,” Thompson said. “Our school community is heartbroken. Layton was a valued and much-loved member of year nine, and he will be greatly missed by everyone. We extend our sincere condolences to Layton’s family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”
Fourteen children aged between 11 and 14 – of whom 11 were boys and three were girls – were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after the death of the teenager, Northumbria police said on Saturday.
At the entrance to the industrial park close to where Layton was found wellwishers left bouquets of flowers, card and tributes, reported Chronicle Live. One message read: “You were a sensitive soul with a kind heart. You will be deeply missed.” Another said: “Layton, thanks for brightening up our lives. You will be missed beyond words.”
A GoFundMe crowdfunder set up by the best friend of the teenager’s mother has raised more than £8,000 towards the costs of his funeral.
Police said they received reports of the fire shortly after 8pm on Friday at the industrial site on the southern banks of the river Tyne. A police spokesperson said: “Sadly, following searches carried out by Northumbria police and partners at Tyne and Wear fire and rescue service, a body believed to be that of 14-year-old Layton Carr was located deceased inside the building. His next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specialist officers.”
The spokesperson added: “Inquiries are at an early stage and members of the public are asked not to speculate online or in the community.”
