Suspect arrested in London following fire at UK PM’s private home

London’s Metropolitan Police have arrested a 21-year-old man on suspicion of attempting to set fire to the private residence of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The incident, which took place in the early hours of May 12, is being treated as a serious arson case, with the intent to endanger life, Caliber.Az reports, citing Sky News.

According to a statement issued by Scotland Yard, the suspect was taken into custody on the night of Tuesday, May 13. "A 21-year-old man was arrested overnight on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life," the official release stated.

Authorities believe the suspect may also be connected to two additional attempted arson incidents that occurred in the same area of North London. One of these cases involved a vehicle, while the other targeted another residential building.

🚨🇬🇧 “21 Year Old Man has been arrested in connection with arson attacks & alleged attack on Keir Starmer’s Nw London Home” pic.twitter.com/Hjq0K13v22

— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) May 13, 2025

Although Starmer and his family reside at the official prime ministerial residence on 10 Downing Street, which is under round-the-clock security, the alleged arson targeted his private home in North London. The property, valued at around £2 million (approximately $2.6 million), is reportedly being rented out. It was this house that came under attack in the early hours of Monday morning.

The fire, which caused visible damage to the front door of the residence, fortunately resulted in no injuries. Witnesses described hearing a loud explosion before seeing flames, which startled neighbours and prompted immediate emergency responses.

The incident is now being investigated by Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Command, which is overseeing the case due to its potential implications and severity. The police have not yet disclosed any motive behind the attack or whether the prime minister was specifically targeted.

By Tamilla Hasanova