Fire at Highpoint Prison Prompts Inmate Evacuation
Inmates were evacuated from a building at Highpoint Prison in Suffolk following a fire outbreak. Suffolk's fire service dispatched 10 crews to the site near Stradishall at 14:40 BST, with two additional teams arriving from Cambridgeshire to assist.
A fire service spokesperson confirmed that prison staff successfully relocated all inmates to a secure area, ensuring everyone was accounted for.
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
The fire originated in a structure composed of timber and brick. Firefighters employed thermal imaging cameras, hose reels, and jets to prevent the fire from spreading further.
The spokesperson detailed the strategy used by the crews:
"Multiple crews were tackling the fire in sections. This helps firefighters maintain control, improve safety, streamline communication, and ensure the incident is managed effectively as it grows and evolves."
They also highlighted the difficulties faced:
"As well as extreme heat, firefighters are faced with the additional challenge of difficult access and a complex internal layout."
Resources Deployed and Prison Details
Fire crews from Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich East, Ixworth, Clare, Newmarket, Long Melford, Sudbury, Woodbridge, and Haverhill were all mobilized to the scene.
HMP Highpoint is a Category C men's prison that accommodates approximately 1,300 inmates.
Emergency Services and Support
The East of England Ambulance Service reported no casualties but remained on site to support firefighting operations. Suffolk Police officers were also present to assist with the incident.
The Ministry of Justice was contacted for comment regarding the situation.
For those with story suggestions related to Suffolk, contact details are available below.
Stay updated with Suffolk news through , Facebook, Instagram, and X.
