Investigation underway after ‘deliberate’ fire in Hartlepool

Cleveland Fire Brigade was called to Cornwall Street in Hartlepool at 10.42pm on Sunday, August 30.

Everyone was accounted for, and firefighters used one hose reel and two sets of breathing apparatus to put out the blaze.

The entrance was completely destroyed by fire, while the rest suffered light smoke damage affecting 10 per cent of the property.

The fire is believed to have been started deliberately and Cleveland Police are investigating.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “Cleveland Fire Brigade were called on 30/08/2026 at 22:42 to an incident at Cornwall Street, Hartlepool.

“Three fire appliances in attendance from Hartlepool and Billingham. Property fire. All persons accounted for.

“One hose reel and two breathing apparatus were used to extinguish the fire. The property sustained 100 per cent fire damage to its entrance and 10 per cent light smoke damage to the rest of property.

“The cause is believed to be deliberate and has been left with Cleveland Police for further investigation.

“The stop call was received at 23:23.”

The Northern Echo has contacted Cleveland Police for a statement on this incident.

Cleveland recorded the highest rate of criminal damage and arson in England and Wales, at 15.0 offences per 1,000 people, in the year to March 2026.