Fire at Milton Keynes LGBTQ+ club Pink Punters was an accident, police say

Pink Panthers, an LGBTQ+ club in Milton Keynes (Image: Google Maps)

A fire at Pink Panthers LGBTQ+ nightclub in Milton Keynes has been declared accidental by police after a man arrested on suspicion of arson was released on bail.

Thames Valley Police said a joint investigation with Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service concluded the fire was not intentional. Chief Superintendent Emma Bailey said: BBC News“Following a thorough joint investigation with Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, we found no evidence of criminality.” It added: “The fire is believed to have been accidental, but fortunately there were no injuries.”

The fire broke out at the Watling Street venue in the early hours of Sunday, April 26. Emergency services arrived shortly after 2am and staff, customers and nearby residents were safely evacuated. No injuries were reported.

A 51-year-old Milton Keynes man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, but has since been removed from questioning.

Police and fire department investigation results

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said its specialist fire investigation team assisted police with their investigation and confirmed the fire was accidental.

Mr Bailey also praised venue staff for their quick response, saying everyone was able to exit the building safely.

What the Pink Panthers mean to the community

Pink Punters is a long-established LGBTQ+ nightclub in Milton Keynes that has been around for over 20 years. Widely known as one of the UK’s most famous LGBTQ+ nightlife venues outside of London, it has a reputation for drag nights and weekend club events.

Owner Frank McMahon said he was “deeply relieved” that investigators had ruled out arson and confirmed the fire was not a deliberate attack or hate crime.

“Buildings were lost, but lives were saved, and that remains the most important fact,” he said, praising the response of officials during the emergency. The Pink Panthers said they plan to make a comeback in the future.

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