UK police arrest two in connection with tire fire

Bradford, UK - Police in Bradford have arrested two people in connection with a large fire in a suspected illegal scrap tire site in the city. 

In a statement 18 Nov, West Yorkshire police said officers arrested a 59-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman in North Yorkshire for conspiracy to commit arson. The suspects have both been released on bail since.

“The fire has had a significant impact on both businesses and residents in its vicinity, as well as Bradford city centre and we are continuing to help and support our colleagues at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service,” said detective superintendent Sarah Jones, of Bradford District Police.

On 16 Nov, a large fire “involving scrap tires” broke out at a go-kart track in the city.

As of 6pm 19 Nov, the fire was still raging at the site, which according to the West Yorkshire Fire Service is suspected to have stored waste tire illegally.

The incident, the fire department said, has led to major interruptions throughout the week, including the closure of a number schools and evacuation operations at local businesses and residential areas.