Police have announced the large fire in Leeds city centre at the weekend is now being investigated as arson.
Several roads were closed and surrounding buildings were evacuated as huge flames rose from near Millennium Square on Saturday night. More than 80 firefighters from West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service were called out to the scene to try and get the blaze under control.
The area around Cookridge Street remained closed off throughout Sunday after the blaze on Saturday, October 15. The fire service had previously called the building 'potentially unsafe' in a statement.
Read more: Several people rushed to hospital after serious Leeds A58 crash
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said today: "Emergency services were called to attend a fire at Cookridge Street, Leeds city centre, shortly before 7:30pm on Saturday night (15/10). The incident is being investigated as arson and enquiries are ongoing led by detectives.
"Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that may help with the enquiry is asked to call Leeds District CID on 101, quoting reference 1430 of 15/10. Or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
No one was hurt in the blaze, which affected the top three floors of what is thought to be the old Leonardo building. The fire service announced they had 10 pumps at the scene on Saturday night.
The large flames could be seen throughout Leeds city centre as emergency services quickly cordoned off the area. Police continued to guard cordons throughout Sunday to make sure no one went near the affected area.
Read next:
