News
Fire Evacuates the Old Bailey in London
About 1,500 people have been evacuated from the Old Bailey and surrounding buildings in London after a fire broke out near the Central Criminal Court. The incident occurred at an electrical substation at the rear of the court, according to the London Fire Brigade. Black smoke was seen coming from the building, and several explosions were heard.
Juries were sent home, and defendants on remand were returned to prison due to the evacuation. Judge Mark Lucraft KC, the Recorder of London, announced that the Old Bailey will remain closed on Thursday while emergency work is carried out.
This fire incident disrupted high-profile trials, including the case of Constance Marten and her partner Mark Gordon, who are facing charges of manslaughter in the death of their newborn baby. Defendants were seen being escorted out of the building and into waiting prison vans, alongside City of London Police officers.
No casualties have been reported so far, according to the BBC. The fire affected power supplies in the area, and UK Power Networks is currently working on restoring them. Judge Lucraft confirmed that the fire was located in the nearby electrical substation.
BBC reporter Nick Johnson, who was present at the Old Bailey, described the scene inside the courtroom as the lights flickered, and then everything went black before the fire alarm went off. He mentioned a distinct smell of smoke similar to a blown lightbulb.
The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) stated that barristers and court staff were advised to return to court on Thursday, unless otherwise instructed. They also reported that five explosions had come from one of the power plants supplying the court.
London Fire Brigade evacuated around 1,500 individuals from the court and surrounding buildings. Traffic in the area is expected to be affected, and people have been advised to avoid the vicinity for safety reasons.
This incident raises concerns about the safety of the Old Bailey, as previous incidents such as falling debris from ceremonial gates have occurred. Improvements and repairs have been reserved for the historic building.
