YMCA Watford fire: 'arson' suspect released on bail

The 33-year-old was taken into custody by police following a third-floor flat blaze at around 10pm on Thursday (July 4), which saw over 100 people evacuated from the high-rise building.

Herts Police confirmed to the Watford Observer that he has now been bailed while the investigation continues.

Eight fire crews were among emergency services that shut the area down as full high-rise procedures were used by Herts Fire and Rescue.

Emergency services in Watford town centre. (Image: Martin Crockatt)

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Eyewitness Aamir Ramos, who owns Café De Lisboa, said at the time “it was all a bit crazy” as residents were moved to the nearby Beechen Grove Car Park.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation but did not require transportation to hospital, the East of England Ambulance Service confirmed. No one was seriously injured.

Anyone with information has been asked to call police on 101 or report it via their website, quoting reference 41/54622/24.

Watford YMCA, which provides temporary accommodation for homeless people, was contacted for comment.