Family’s tribute to ‘loving boy’ killed in Bill Quay fire

The family of 14-year-old Layton Carr, who died at the scene of a fire at a former industrial estate, have described him as “our bright and beautiful boy”.

A blaze broke out at a building on Fairfield Industrial Park in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead on Friday evening.

Eleven boys and three girls, aged between 11 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, and police have confirmed two more boys, aged 12, were also arrested. All 16 children have been released on bail.

In a tribute, Layton’s family said: “Layton was your typical 14-year-old lad, a cheeky, happy lad. Despite his cheeky side Layton had an absolute heart of gold and would do anything for anyone.”

The local community has reacted with shock, and flowers and tributes have been laid at the scene.

His family, who also released a picture of the teenager, said “he was loved by all that met him, and it showed”.

“He was a family boy that loved his mam and sisters more than anything in the world,” they said.

“Layton, we love you more than any words can ever explain. You will be missed more than you’ll ever know. Our bright and beautiful boy.”

Meanwhile, more than £15,000 has been raised via a GoFundMe appeal set up for Layton’s mother.

Firefighters were called to the blaze just after 19:50 BST, where crews were met with “a severe fire within a section of one of the buildings”.

“As a result of the fire, sadly a person we believe to be 14-year-old Layton Carr was found deceased by our firefighters,” a spokesperson for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said.

The fire, which was brought under control just before midnight, broke out in a large building on the estate, which has largely fallen into disrepair in recent years.

Among those paying tribute on Monday was Layton’s friend Mason, also 14, who came to lay flowers at the scene with his mum.

“He was just the most positive person I ever knew,” he said.

“He always managed to make people laugh, he was always there for me.

“Even if no-one else was by my side, and it didn’t matter if I was scared or he was, he was always there to back me or protect me, or anything.

“I just can’t believe he’s gone.”

Staff and students at Hebburn Comprehensive School, where Layton attended, have also paid their respects.

Headteacher David Thompson said “our school community is heartbroken” and “as a school, we will rally together to support one another”.

“Layton was a valued and much-loved member of Year 9 and he will be greatly missed by everyone,” he said.

An investigation into the fire and Layton’s death continues.

Northumbria Police has asked anyone with information to contact them.

Det Ch Insp Louise Jenkins said: “Our thoughts remain with Layton’s family at this devastating time.

“I would remind everyone not to speculate on details of the incident online or in the community – what might seem like a simple post on social media, could disrupt an on-going investigation.

“Circulation of malicious communications is classed as a criminal offence and those who choose to be involved could face prosecution.”