Arson investigation launched after fire at old Sainsbury’s in Clacton

On Tuesday 27 August, shortly before 5.30pm, officers from Essex Police were called to the old Sainsbury’s store in Clacton High Street.

Firefighters from Clacton, Colchester, Frinton and Weeley were also called to the scene.

There was heavy smoke at the scene and residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed.

The operation was later increased to eight teams, who extinguished the fire from inside the building and from the first floor of the building with the help of a turntable ladder.

Due to the “large amount of debris” in the abandoned building, four additional crews with more firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were requested.

The emergency services extinguished the fire section by section. An area of ​​about 40 by 15 meters was affected.

Intentional – Essex Police are treating the fire as arson. (Image: Abi Andrea)

By 11 p.m., the incident was reduced to four crews, who continued to extinguish the last flames and cool the fire scene.

By 1 a.m. the fire was completely extinguished and a crew stayed overnight to monitor the fires.

Following the incident, Essex Police believed that the fire had started in the loading bay area and that it was a deliberate arson.

A spokesman said: “We suspect arson and are currently investigating.”

“If you have any information, CCTV or dashboard camera footage or any other footage relating to this incident, please contact us.”

Reports can be made via the online live chat service or other online reporting services at essex.police.uk/digital101.

Anonymous reports can also be made through the independent charity @Crimestoppers by visiting their website or calling 0800 555 111.

When reporting, the reference number 42/131954/24 must be stated.

The former Sainsbury’s on the High Street closed in 2021, a year after bosses announced its closure.

The building has been boarded up since February 2021.

The former supermarket site with an area of ​​2,800 m² came onto the market earlier this year.