A 14-year-old boy has died after a fire near an industrial estate in Gateshead, police have confirmed. Northumbria Police said it received a report of the fire near Fairfield industrial park in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead just after 8pm on Friday (May 2).

The force said the emergency services attended and the blaze was put out a short time later. Nortumbria Police issued a missing persons appeal on Friday night for Layton Carr, who was believed to be in the area at the time.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: "Sadly, following searches carried out by Northumbria Police and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, a body believed to be that of Layton was located deceased inside the building."

His next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specialist officers, according to the police.

Police said enquiries are at an early stage and members of the public have been asked not to speculate online or in the local area.

Eleven boys and three girls aged between 14 and 11 have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, according to the police. They remain in custody at this time.

Det Ch Insp Louise Jenkins from Northumbria Police said: "This is an extremely tragic incident where a boy has sadly lost his life.

"Our thoughts are with Layton’s family as they begin to attempt to process the loss of their loved one. Our specialist officers will continue to support them in whatever way they can. We ask that their privacy be respected at this time."

DCI Jenkins added that a cordon remains in place while officers carry out enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

She said: "I’d like to thank our officers and partners at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for their efforts through the night."

Northumbria Police said its officers were in the area with others to carry out enquiries and offer reassurance to the public.

The force said in a statement that anyone who has concerns should speak to an officer on duty.

Members of the public who may have information which could help enquiries have been asked to contact Northumbria Police.

This can be done by sending a direct message on social media or by using the live chat or report form functions on the force’s website.