Huge blaze which closed railway line started deliberately, investigators believe
More than 100 firefighters tackled the fire, which started on Monday and engulfed several disused factories in Wolverhampton.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Fire investigators have said they believe a major blaze which destroyed several derelict factory buildings in Wolverhampton was started deliberately.
A major incident was declared on Monday, with more than 100 firefighters tackling the overnight blaze which disrupted rail services and led to the evacuation of homes.
The fire on a site off Lower Horseley Fields saw all trains on an adjoining railway line stopped shortly after it was reported at about 9pm on Monday.
At its height, 28 fire engines were on the scene, with commanders using a thermal imaging drone to identify hotspots in the blaze.
In an update on Thursday, West Midlands Fire Service said: “Our investigators believe that the fire was started deliberately.
“We will be making revisits to the scene for at least the next 24 hours, to ensure there are no further flare-ups.
“For the time being, Lower Walsall Street will remain closed and Lower Horseley Fields will be one-way into the city.
“Please take extra care if you are travelling or walking in the area as, in spite of heavy gritting at the scene, nearby roads affected by water could remain very slippery.”