Full Breakdown
Arson Arrests After Large Blaze at Former Thaal Indian Restaurant in Brotherton
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
A fire broke out on Old Great North Road in Brotherton, near Knottingley, at about 22:15 BST on a Monday night. The blaze, which at its peak covered roughly 25 m by 20 m (82 ft by 66 ft), caused extensive damage, including a collapsed roof. North Yorkshire Police arrested two boys, aged 12 and 15, on suspicion of arson in the early hours of the following day. Both remain in custody. No injuries or missing persons were reported, and a full search of the empty building will be conducted once it is safe.
Background & Context
The property had housed Thaal Indian Restaurant for two decades before the establishment closed in February after 20 years of operation. A spokesperson for the former restaurant described the building as a central part of the Thaal story, recalling the many celebrations and daily activities that took place there over its 20-year history.
Official Statements & Responses
North Yorkshire Police confirmed the arrests and indicated that the investigation is ongoing. The North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that the fire has been extinguished and that checks for remaining hotspots were completed. A spokesperson for the service noted that a crew from Acomb, supported by an aerial ladder platform, remained on-scene to assist the investigation. The service also advised local residents to keep windows shut during the incident. Roads around the site have reopened, though the footpath surrounding the building stays closed.
Data & Statistics
Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has prompted a multi-agency response, with police and fire officials coordinating to determine the cause and assess any further risks. The closure of the footpath and continued presence of fire crews underscore the seriousness of the investigation. Community members await the outcome of the arson inquiry while the site remains inaccessible pending safety checks.