Murder and arson suspect following fatal Reading fire continues to be questioned

A man arrested on suspicion of murder and arson following a flat fire in Reading continues to be questioned by police.

One person has been confirmed as having died from the incident, in Rowe Court, off Grovelands Road, while two people have been confirmed as missing.

Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Police have obtained a warrant for further detention of a 31-year-old man and he remains in police custody while officers continue to question him.

Thames Valley Police has said that it doesn’t “expect there to be any further survivors from the fire”.

Police officers and fire service crews continue to remain on the scene following the fire, which was first reported at around 3am yesterday (Wednesday) morning.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said specialist teams have spent today assessing the structural damage to the building.

The extent of the damage and the need to ensure the safety of those carrying out the work means officers and firefighters are likely to be working in the area for a significant length of time.

The Casualty Bureau, which had been set up to record people’s concerns about any missing loved ones, has now been closed.

A helpline is being set up by Reading Borough Council. The number will be released as soon as possible.