Five children under the age of 18 have been arrested in connection with a murder investigation following a devastating house fire in Bideford, North Devon. Emergency services responded to the blaze at a two-storey property on Honestone Street on Tuesday evening at approximately 8.30pm. One individual remains unaccounted for, and their next of kin have been informed.

Initially, Devon and Cornwall Police launched an arson investigation, but this has since escalated to a murder probe. The five suspects, comprising four boys and a girl, are currently in police custody. All are reported to be from the North Devon area. Police have indicated that this is one of several hypotheses being explored regarding the cause of the fire.

A man in his 30s from Bideford was previously arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life but has since been released on police bail. Forensic teams and police officers have been seen at the scene, where a guard remains in place.

Approximately 45 local residents were evacuated from their homes due to the fire and are still unable to return two days later. Torridge District Council has confirmed that they are working closely with police and fire services to support those affected. A spokesperson stated that 30 residents have been placed in temporary housing as the investigation continues.

Detective Inspector Chris Lithgow from the Major Crime Investigation Team commented, "We are treating this as a murder investigation, as murder is one of several hypotheses currently being investigated by our officers. We are working with the local authority to support the displaced residents and hope to enable them to return to their homes as soon as it is safe to do so."

He added, "This is a challenging investigation, and we are working tirelessly to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire. One man remains unaccounted for at this time. We appreciate this is a worrying time for the local community, but I would like to thank residents for their patience and support."

Police have urged the public not to speculate online about the incident and have assured that there will be a heightened police presence in the area. Anyone with information or footage that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the police by calling 101 or visiting their website, quoting log 748 of 28 October.