Staffordshire Police arrest third man in Crooked House investigation

Staffordshire Police have arrested a third man as their investigation into the fire at the Crooked House pub continues.

A 51-year-old man, from Buckingham, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent or being reckless as to whether life was endangered. He has since been released on conditional police bail while police continue to carry out a number of lines of enquiry.

Officers trawled through CCTV footage and spoke to those who have come forward with information since the fire on August 5.

Staffordshire Police said: “We would like to thank everyone who has already come forward with important information about this investigation and those who are continuing to engage positively with officers. We understand that speculation is still widespread, both locally and online. We’d like to reiterate that we are working hard to get through an extensive list of enquiries at this time.

“The 66-year-old man and the 33-year-old man, who were previously arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, remain on conditional police bail at this time. We are still asking those people who might have information which can help us to get in touch if they haven’t already. Call us on 101, or message us using Live Chat on our website. If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”