Man arrested in connection with fire at Milton Keynes LGBTQ+ club Pink Punters
A man has been arrested in connection with a fire at a Milton Keynes nightclub (stock image via Getty Images)
Police have confirmed that a man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a fire at Milton Keynes LGBTQ+ nightclub Pink Punters.
In the early hours of Sunday (26 April) morning, a fire broke out at the club on an outside balcony. The club was evacuated while firefighters attended the scene.
Thankfully, nobody was injured, however, as per owner Frank McMahon, “the building itself has been completely destroyed”.
A 51-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remained in custody. Police have asked the public not to speculate as to why the fire was started.
As per The Guardian, Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie said: “This was a significant fire in which a large number of people had to be evacuated. Thankfully no one was injured and staff at the venue worked quickly and effectively to safely evacuate everyone.
“At this time, it would be too early to comment on any particular motivation for this incident and we would respectfully ask for people not to speculate.”
Pink Punters statement
On Sunday, Pink Punters owner Frank McMahon released a statement on Facebook.
In it, McMahon wrote: “Pink Punters is more than a building. It is an institution, built over many years by a wide family of staff, customers, friends and supporters. Many people have visited the site today to see the extent of the damage for themselves. We do not yet know the full extent, as the fire is still being dealt with, but we will keep people updated when we are able to do so.
“Worldwide, nightclub fires have too often resulted in a devastating human toll. Tonight, we can all be profoundly thankful that this was not the case here. The building has been lost, but lives were protected, and that matters more than anything.
“I also recognise that many people are deeply affected by what has happened. Pink Punters has been one big family for many years, and I know this tragedy will be felt by staff, customers, former staff, regulars, friends, performers, suppliers and many others who have been part of our story. Please know that my thoughts are with all of you as well. I am truly sorry for the sadness this has caused.”
He finished by writing: “Let me say this clearly: Pink Punters will be back.”
