Emergency services launched a search for potential casualties in a town in Greater Manchester following a fire outbreak at an abandoned pub. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, prompting the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) to respond to reports of a fire at a commercial property. The blaze engulfed the former White Lion pub on York Street in Heywood, Rochdale, with multiple firefighters dispatched to the location to extinguish the fire.
Smoke was visible emanating from the building, prompting a search for potential victims, which thankfully yielded no casualties. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. This event follows the closure of the White Lion pub since a fatal crash in July 2024 involving university graduate Will Place, who tragically lost his life after his vehicle crashed into the pub, resulting in significant damage.
The fatal crash occurred when police officers in a patrol car tried to stop the vehicle on Bolton Road, leading to the collision and subsequent fire. Fire crews swiftly responded to the scene, but Will, aged 23, was declared dead on-site. Regarding the recent fire incident, a GMFRS spokesperson stated that firefighters were alerted to the fire at the derelict pub and successfully contained the flames on the first floor. Ongoing safety checks are being conducted to secure the area.