Man, 76, Arrested Over Alleged Summer Camp Poisoning as 8 Children Are Hospitalized After Falling Ill: Police

Eight children attending a summer camp in England were hospitalized after allegedly being poisoned, prompting police to arrest a 76-year-old man in connection with the incident.

Leicestershire Police said they were alerted on Sunday, July 27, by a third party who reported that several children at a summer camp on Canal Lane in the village of Stathern were feeling unwell.

Officers and paramedics from the East Midlands Ambulance Service quickly responded to the scene to assess and safeguard the children.

Following initial evaluations, eight children were taken to the hospital as a precaution. All have since been discharged.

Authorities later confirmed that a 76-year-old man had been arrested “on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious substance with intent to injure, aggrieve, or annoy.” He remains in police custody as the investigation continues.

Detective Inspector Neil Holden, who is leading the investigation, acknowledged the community’s concern.

“We understand how distressing this incident is for parents, guardians, and local residents,” he said. “We’re in close contact with the families of all children involved and working with partner agencies to ensure their continued safety and support.”

Officers remain at the scene conducting inquiries and providing assistance to the community.

Due to the nature of the incident, the East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s Major Incident Team has taken over the investigation to ensure a “full and thorough” probe.

In addition, Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which oversees police accountability in the U.K.

An IOPC spokesperson confirmed the referral and said the agency will investigate whether there was a delay or mishandling in the police response after concerns about the children were initially raised.

“Our assessment team has reviewed the available evidence and determined the matter warrants an independent investigation,” the IOPC said. “We will examine whether officers failed to carry out their duties, contributing to delays in the police response to what was later declared a critical incident.”

The BBC reported that the affected children were attending camp at Stathern Lodge in Leicestershire.

Authorities say the investigation remains “complex and sensitive” and that updates will be provided as more details emerge.