Three males have been arrested after a large disturbance broke out during a vigil, where several cars were set on fire and missiles thrown at emergency workers. 

Police launched an investigation with extensive enquiries ongoing to locate those who were involved in the disorder at Edison Court, Sunderland, on Sunday (August 13).

Police have now confirmed that two men – aged 21 and 51 – were arrested on suspicion of affray. They have since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

Read more: Sunderland vigil incident: Vehicles set on fire and fireworks thrown

A 14-year-old male was also arrested on suspicion of affray and theft of a vehicle. He has since been released on police bail for theft, with no further action to be taken for affray.

Chief Inspector Neil Hall, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of the young man who sadly passed away.

“We are aware there may be further vigils planned to commemorate his life – however, we are keen to ensure these are peaceful shows of respect.

“Disorder of any kind will not be tolerated in the community, and the minority found to be involved will be dealt with robustly.

“Police will remain in the area throughout the weekend – and those with concerns and information are encouraged to speak with an officer on duty.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we would ask anyone with information or footage, who has not yet spoken to police, to get in touch.”

Police were alerted shortly before 9.10pm on Sunday to a disturbance in the Edison Court area, with a a number of vehicle fires.

Chief Superintendent Neil Hutchison, of Northumbria Police said at the time: “This vigil was held to commemorate a young man who had sadly passed away and our thoughts remain with his family and loved ones.

“More than 100 people attended the vigil and a number of fireworks were set off.

“Unfortunately, some in attendance chose to engage in disorder with several vehicles set on fire and fireworks and other items thrown at emergency service workers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported but one police car was damaged in the process.”

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lynsey McVay said: “We can confirm we were called to the Edison Court area on Sunday evening to extinguish a car that was on fire.

"However, upon attendance our crews were subjected to verbal abuse and had missiles thrown at them as they responded to the fire. Upon being subjected to these attacks, they left the scene and thankfully none of our firefighters were injured.

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"There was some minor damage to our appliance and the fire burned out of its own accord, meaning we were no longer required at the scene.

"Attacks of this nature are completely unacceptable and make an already challenging job more difficult and more dangerous. Those responsible are not only putting the safety of our crews at risk, but they are putting themselves and their community in danger.”

Members of the public can contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website, by calling 101, or can share information anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers.