The fire has left one man in a critical condition.
14 men were arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out at London’s Studio 338 nightclub on Monday (August 8).
According to BBC News, the men were released without charge later on Monday and police are still investigating the blaze, which has left one man in a critical condition.
Around 15 fire engines and 100 firefighters were called to tackle the fire at the Greenwich venue at 11.55am yesterday.
London Fire Brigade said that the smoke could be seen from across London and 999 control officers took over 50 emergency calls. About a dozen people are believed to have escaped from the fire by jumping off the roof of the building.
A recycling yard and several industrial units have also been affected and the area has now been cordoned off due to nearby gas cylinders. The official cause of the fire is still not known.
Studio 338’s general manager has released a statement: “By now I’m sure you all know about the fire we have had here at Studio 338. The blaze started just before midday today and is now totally extinguished. For now that is all the information I have but of course I will update everyone as soon as we know more about the extent of the damages and loss.
“Myself and the team here want to thank you all for your support and the lovely messages we have received today. It’s at times like this that you realise what wonderful people we have involved in London’s dance music community.
“Although this is of course a very sad and upsetting day for everyone who has worked, performed or partied at Studio 338, right now we have stay positive and strong. I and the awesome team here will do everything and anything to get us all back dancing together as soon as possible.
“Over the weekend, I read a beautiful line in Hilary Mantel’s incredible Bring Up The Bodies. It goes: “The things you think are the disasters in your life are not the disasters really. Almost anything can be turned around: out of every ditch, a path, if you can only see it.”
“That’s ringing in my ears today as we take stock and work out the next steps. Things are only finished if you let them be. Our unity and love for music will prevail, I am 100% sure of it.”
The club say that it is “a bit early” to think about upcoming events and tickets and that its first priority is “people’s safety and understanding what has happened.” “Once we have had a chance to at least get an idea of the impact this has had, we will get straight onto what can be done for the near future and pre-booked tickets for events, which may now not be able to go ahead at 338.” [via The Independent]
