Four girls suffer 'life-changing burn injuries' after fire at Wendy's restaurant

Four young girls, all aged 12, have been left with life-changing injuries following what locals called an 'explosion' at a Wendy's restaurant in Brighton. The victims were rushed to hospital after a fire broke out at the fast-food chain on Western Road last night, Thursday, October 31.

Sussex Police are currently investigating the cause of the incident, which saw locals report hearing an 'explosion' on social media. A spokesperson for the force told the Mirror: "Four 12-year-old girls sustained potentially life-changing burns injuries 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 at this stage."

Wendy's, known for its burgers, sandwiches, wraps and breakfast combos, first opened in the UK in the 1980s and returned in 2021 after a 20-year absence. The Brighton branch opened in March 2022.

The Mirror has contacted Wendy's and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service for comment.