A PERSON is thought to have died and several others are unaccounted for following a major fire in West Reading this morning.
Police have arrested a 31-year-old on suspicion of arson.
The incident took place at a block of flats in Grovelands Road around 3am this morning.
Full details have yet to emerge, but police are not treating it as a terrorist incident.
Police and fire crews are on-site tackling the blaze, and are asking people to stay away from the area.
There are a number of road closures in place.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “Local agencies are working together at the scene of a large fire at a property in Grovelands Road, Reading.
“Our officers, as well as the fire and ambulance services, are at the site. Sadly, one person is believed to have died, and there are a number of others who are as yet unaccounted for.
“Officers have arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of arson and murder and he is in custody at this time.
“The incident is not being treated as terrorism-related.
“Road closures are in place, and people are asked to avoid the area at this time.
“If you have any concerns, for loved ones, please try and contact them in the first instance.
“A dedicated number is being set up for this, and details will follow very shortly.”
