‘Explosion’ at Wendy’s burger bar leaves 4 12-year-old ladies with life-changing accidents
Four young girls suffered potentially life changing injuries after a suspected explosion at a burger restaurant on Halloween.
The 12-year-olds, who remain in hospital, were burned when fire broke out in the toilets at Wendy’s in Brighton.
The blaze sparked a mass emergency service response in the city at around 8.30pm on Thursday evening.
Sussex Police continue to investigate the cause of the fire as social media users reported hearing what they believed was a fireworks ‘explosion’ at the restaurant.
However, it is understood fireworks were not the cause of the incident.
Four 12-year-old girls suffered potentially life changing burns after a suspected explosion at Wendy’s in Brighton, which emergency services are seen outside last night
Emergency services including police descended on the scene and cordoned off the restaurant on Western Road (pictured)
Footage shared online shows commotion outside the restaurant with lights blaring from the emergency vehicles
Social media users reported hearing what they believed was a fireworks ‘explosion’ nearby but it is understood fireworks did not cause the blaze
A spokesman for the force said: ‘Four 12-year-old girls sustained potentially life-changing burns following an incident at Wendy’s in Western Road, Brighton, around 8.30pm on Thursday October 31.
‘They remain in hospital at this time, and our enquiries to establish the cause of the fire are ongoing.
‘While we are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident, anyone with any information is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 1241 of 31/10.’
No arrests have been made.
Sussex Police said the incident took place in the toilet area of the restaurant.
Western Road was temporarily closed to allow for emergency services, including East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, to attend the scene last night.
A spokeswoman for the fire service confirmed they were called to attend a fire at the restaurant.
Footage shared online shows commotion outside the restaurant as emergency service members stood outside the entrance with the road cordoned off.
The American burger chain opened in Brighton in March 2022 shortly after the brand first opened in the UK.
A Wendy’s spokesperson said: ‘Our thoughts are with those recovering from this incident in our Brighton restaurant.
‘The safety of our customers and employees is our highest priority. We are continuing to work with the local police authorities on their investigation.’
