A 14-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of arson following a major fire at the derelict Cygnet Hotel in Sandown has now been released, but he remains under investigation.
The teenager was arrested after a blaze tore through the former hotel on Carter Street on 18th October, causing extensive damage to the building’s roof and upper floors.
Firefighters from across the Isle of Wight responded, with support units from the mainland placed on standby. Crews remained on scene for more than 14 hours.
Following the incident, Police launched an arson investigation and arrested a 14-year-old boy from Shanklin on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He was initially released on conditional bail until 21st January 2026.
A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has now confirmed that the boy has been released from bail. However, he remains under investigation.
The Cygnet Hotel had stood derelict for several years, and the fire reignited calls for more action to address disused buildings in Sandown.
Should bulldoze these places so they are not a target
for vandals
Prevention is better than cure, something this island
doesn’t seem to understand.
Yes i don’t understand why they leave them up? stupid bloody council.
Wait for the do gooders and hand wringers, can’t do anything because of his age B/S. What has his age got to do with it? Crime is crime and those protecting him and siding with him are aiding and abetting him
He knows right from wrong. He is old enough to set this property alight. I just wonder if he gave any thought to any rough sleepers that could have been in there at the time? I think that if the worst happened, he would be facing more than an arson charge. At the age of 14 the parents are still responsible for him so they should be named and shamed as they are adults. I say birch the little bastards. Well said “CockRobbin”.
What can you do with the scrot..nothing.So the littel shit will always be a little shit.Another on benefits drink drugs stealing …
Borstall and stop his families benefits
if they are on benefits.
Once a fire bug always a fire bug, a leopard
doesn’t change it’s spots.
I drove back from Aldi earlier and noticed whilst driving
past this eyesore a window is hanging off it’s frame
“THIS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TOO HAPPEN”
With strong wind forecast it could blow off and injure
someone.
YET MORE PROOF HEALTH AND SAFETY IS SHOCKING ON THE ISLAND!
Prevention is better than cure.