Arson Suspects Arrested in Connection with Fire at England’s Famous Crooked House Pub
Two men have been apprehended by the Staffordshire Police Department in connection with a devastating fire that reduced the historic Crooked House pub in Himley, England to rubble earlier this month. The 66-year-old man from Dudley and the 33-year-old man from Milton Keynes were taken into custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, according to a statement released by the police department on Thursday.
Although the identities of the suspects have not been disclosed, authorities revealed that they are currently being interrogated as the investigation into the incident continues. The fire, which caused extensive damage to the charmingly slanted pub, has deeply affected the local community and attracted significant attention due to the unique history and appearance of the establishment.
Originally constructed as a farmhouse in 1765, the Crooked House pub acquired its distinctive slant in the 19th century due to subsidence caused by coal mining beneath its foundation. This fascinating feature made the pub a popular attraction and earned it the title of “Britain’s Wonkiest Pub.” Situated in the village of Himley, the pub had become an integral part of the local heritage.
Following the fire, the remaining structure of the Crooked House pub was eventually demolished, which sparked outrage among numerous residents and garnered criticism from the South Staffordshire local council. Matt Wright, a resident of a nearby town, expressed the collective sorrow felt by many over the loss of the beloved establishment. “It’s probably the only pub in the world where you’d come out and feel more sober than when you were in,” he lamented. “It was a really bizarre feeling that you couldn’t experience anywhere else. And it made everyone who came really happy.”
In light of the recent developments, Andy Street, the West Midlands mayor, commended the arrests and restated his commitment to seeing the pub rebuilt. In a statement on Facebook, he declared, “My position on the site hasn’t changed — it must be rebuilt. Those conversations are active and underway.”
As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to uncover the motives behind the alleged arson and restore the cherished Crooked House pub to its former glory. The local community eagerly awaits justice and the potential revival of this iconic landmark.