Gatwick Parking Fire: Second Arrest as Commuters Demand Answers

Devastating Fire Destroys Hundreds of Vehicles at Gatwick Parking Facility

A catastrophic fire swept through Caldyne Business Park on Wallage Lane in Rowfant on Saturday evening, destroying approximately 140 vehicles stored at Sapphire Parking, a third-party facility serving Gatwick Airport passengers. The blaze erupted shortly after 9pm, sending towering flames and thick plumes of smoke into the night sky—a sight witnessed by nearby residents and captured in images that spread rapidly across social media.

The incident prompted Sussex Police to launch a thorough investigation, resulting in two arrests. A 67-year-old man was detained on Saturday evening when the fire occurred, followed by a 29-year-old arrested on Monday. Both have since been released on bail as the investigation continues. Police are appealing for additional information from anyone who witnessed the fire or has relevant details about the circumstances leading to the blaze.

Gatwick Airport itself does not own the facility and has released statements expressing concern for affected passengers. The airport authority acknowledged the distressing situation while clarifying their limited involvement, as Sapphire Parking operates independently as a third-party provider. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though the emotional and financial toll on vehicle owners has been substantial and ongoing.

Passengers Furious Over Communication Failures and Compensation Delays

Stranded Gatwick passengers are expressing mounting frustration with Sapphire Parking's handling of the crisis, particularly regarding inadequate communication and unclear information about vehicle damage. Natalie Odell from Liss in Hampshire describes receiving “almost zero” communication after returning from a holiday in Crete on Sunday morning. Despite parking her vehicle with the company, she remained in limbo for days, unable to determine whether her car had been destroyed or survived the fire—a critical piece of information needed before filing insurance claims.

Nick Brooks from Wembley echoed similar concerns, describing the situation as “frustrating and very stressful” while stranded abroad after parking his cherished Ford Focus ST that he'd owned for twelve years. James Carson from Guildford eventually retrieved his Tesla by personally tracking it via the vehicle's onboard system and making multiple trips to the site, after receiving conflicting information from company representatives.

Many passengers have incurred hundreds of pounds in additional travel expenses while awaiting resolution. Some report that Sapphire promised reimbursement for alternative transportation costs, though payment processes remain unclear. The company cancelled approximately 600 bookings following the incident and has acknowledged the situation as “a nightmare for everyone,” but critics argue their crisis management has been inadequate and poorly coordinated, leaving customers feeling abandoned during an already stressful experience.

What Affected Passengers Should Do Now—Action Steps and Next Moves

If you parked your vehicle at Sapphire Parking prior to the fire, taking immediate action is crucial. First, contact Sapphire Parking directly to confirm your vehicle's status—whether it has been accounted for, damaged, or destroyed. Document all communications in writing, whether via email or official correspondence, as these records will be essential for insurance claims and any potential legal action.

Second, photograph your vehicle using its tracker system if available (as one Guildford passenger successfully did), or contact the police non-emergency line at 101 to request assistance in locating your vehicle. Third, notify your insurance provider immediately, providing them with all available evidence, photographs, and correspondence from Sapphire Parking. Insurance companies typically require detailed documentation before processing claims.

Third, keep receipts for all additional travel expenses incurred due to not having your vehicle—public transport, taxi fares, rental cars, or other transportation costs. If Sapphire has promised reimbursement, request written confirmation of amounts and timelines. Finally, consider joining or connecting with other affected passengers; collective action has proven effective in similar situations in Surrey and surrounding areas including Dorking, East Horsley, Woking, and Horsley. Local community groups and consumer rights organisations can provide guidance. Sussex Police continues appealing for witness information—if you have details about the fire, contact them directly to assist the ongoing investigation and ensure accountability.

Source: Second arrest after fire at car park used by Gatwick passengers

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