Disused Exeter Police Station Engulfed by Fire; Crews from Six Stations Tackle Major Blaze

Monday, 17 November 2025 22:30

By Julie Green

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service were called to a major blaze at a disused police station in Exeter at 7:38pm this evening, after multiple reports of smoke issuing from the derelict building.

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service were called to a significant fire at a disused police station in Exeter at 7:38pm this evening, following multiple reports of smoke issuing from the building.

Three fire engines and an Aerial Ladder Platform (ALP) were first mobilised, with initial crews arriving from Danes Castle and Middlemoor. Firefighters confirmed smoke coming from the former police station and immediately committed teams wearing Breathing Apparatus. They began tackling the blaze using a hose reel jet, safety jet, thermal imaging camera and a 13.5-metre ladder.

As the extent of the incident became clear, the situation was quickly scaled up. Crews requested an additional two fire engines, bringing in further support from Exmouth and Crediton to assist with interior firefighting and ventilation efforts.

Shortly afterwards, a further two fire engines were dispatched for extra personnel, with firefighters from Honiton and Ottery St Mary joining the response. Crews utilised the Aerial Ladder Platform to access upper levels of the building, while teams on the ground deployed small tools, hose reel jets and safety jets to extinguish multiple seats of fire discovered throughout the derelict structure.

No injuries were reported, and the fire was brought under control after extensive efforts by all attending stations. Firefighters remained on scene into the night to damp down hotspots and conduct safety checks.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and an investigation will begin once the building is fully safe to enter.

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