Metropolitan Police have arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with suspected arson attacks targeting two properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and a car. The suspect is held on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
The arrest follows a series of incidents. A fire broke out at the Prime Minister’s private residence in Kentish Town, north London, early Monday morning. A previous incident involved a small fire at the front door of a flats conversion in nearby Islington, also linked to Sir Keir, on Sunday. London Fire Brigade reported one person was safely evacuated from the Islington property.
Further investigation includes a car fire on the same street as the Kentish Town property, which occurred Thursday at approximately 3:00 AM BST. Counter-terrorism police are leading the inquiry, citing the properties’ connection to a high-profile public figure as a reason for their involvement.
Local residents described the Kentish Town fire, noting the intensity of the flames and the firefighters’ response. One resident, Linda Perry (80), recounted being awakened by shouts of “fire” and witnessing the blaze illuminate the street. Another resident commented on the unusual nature of the event for their typically quiet neighborhood.
The Islington fire was reported just after 3:00 AM on Sunday, while the Kentish Town fire occurred at 1:11 AM on Monday. The latter was brought under control within 20 minutes, resulting in damage to the property’s entrance but no injuries. While Sir Keir Starmer previously resided at the Kentish Town property, it’s currently rented out; he now lives at 10 Downing Street. His spokesperson expressed gratitude to emergency services and declined further comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed her briefing on the incidents but offered no further details, expressing support for the police investigation.