Authorities in Kent, England, are investigating a significant hotel fire that forced the evacuation of approximately 280 guests. Police have stated they believe the blaze, which occurred at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, was deliberately started.
Major Evacuation and Fire Response
The incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday morning, with the fire reportedly beginning in the hotel’s basement before being discovered around 1 am. The scale of the fire necessitated a large-scale response from emergency services. At its height, 26 fire engines and numerous firefighters were engaged in battling the flames. The South East Coast Ambulance Service was also present, and one individual was transported to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the evacuation.
Folkestone and Hythe District Council established a welfare centre to provide support and accommodation for the displaced guests. The 550-room hotel’s structure was assessed for integrity due to the severity of the fire.
Investigation into Suspicious Circumstances
Initially classified as suspicious by Kent Fire and Rescue Service, the investigation has now escalated with Kent Police publicly stating their belief that the fire was intentionally set. Detectives are actively pursuing inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the origin of the blaze.
Fire station manager Lawrence Pater described the fire as “very severe.” As of Saturday evening, four fire engines, a height vehicle, and a technical rescue unit remained at the scene to manage residual risks and continue the investigation.
Guest Accounts of the Incident
Guests described a frightening experience as the fire alarms sounded. Ross Honeycomb, a 39-year-old hotel guest, recounted being woken by the alarms around 1 am. He described seeing smoke emanating from the underground car park and hearing subsequent explosions, calling the situation “madness” and noting he had been outside barefoot throughout the night.
The hotel group, Britannia Hotels, confirmed the incident and stated they were taking immediate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests and staff members.
Police Appeal for Information
As the investigation progresses, Kent Police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist their inquiries. They are particularly interested in obtaining CCTV or dashcam footage from the vicinity of the hotel, specifically covering the period between 10 pm on Friday and 12:30 am on Saturday. Anyone with relevant footage or information is urged to contact the police.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Location: Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone, Kent, England.
- Time of Discovery: Approximately 1 am on Saturday.
- Origin: Believed to have started in the hotel’s basement.
- Evacuated Guests: Around 280 people.
- Emergency Response: Up to 26 fire engines, numerous firefighters, ambulance services, and police.
- Injuries: One person treated for minor injuries.
- Police Stance: Believed to be deliberately started; investigation ongoing.
- Fire Service Stance: Treating as suspicious.
Conclusion
The deliberate ignition of a fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel has led to a significant emergency response and the displacement of hundreds of guests. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation and have made a public appeal for assistance. The focus remains on understanding the full circumstances of the incident and identifying those responsible, while ensuring the safety and support of those affected.
