Second arrest in connection with Academy Square fire

A second juvenile was arrested yesterday evening by Gardai investigating the fire in the basement of the Academy Square complex in Navan which left 100 people homeless.

A 15-year-old male was arrested on Thursday evening and detained in Navan Garda Station where he was interviewed in relation to the arson at Academy Square on the 7th August, as well as three other arson incidents around the town.

He was released from custody and a file is now being prepared which will be sent to the Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau in accordance with the Children's Act 2001.

Last Sunday, a 16-year-old male was also arrested and questioned as part of the Garda investigation into the fire. He was also released from custody with a file to be sent to the Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau.

Investigating Gardai have confirmed they are not looking for anybody else in relation to the incident.

The fire resulted in 34 apartments being evacuated and left around 100 people homeless. The blaze destroyed the plant room located in the basement of complex which control the services and affected residents have still not been able to return to their homes.