Murder squad detectives have arrested five men on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a house blaze which killed an autistic 12-year-old boy.

The body of Damian Clough was discovered in his bedroom in Kinara Close, Stockbridge, Keighley by firefighters and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Firefighters, forensic investigation officers and detectives were quickly at the scene, a quiet residential street, following the grim discovery late on Saturday night.

A post mortem examination established Damian had died of smoke inhalation.

Three have been released without charge but two remained in police custody yesterday where they were being questioned by detectives.

Damian’s family were still coming to terms with their loss and were being supported by specialist liaison officers, as floral tributes began to appear outside the house.

Keighley’s councillors yesterday sent their condolences to the family. Councillor Doreen Lee (Lab, Keighley West), said: “This is a tragedy. I have a disabled grandson myself and my thoughts go out to the family. If there is anything either I or Councillor Steve Pullen can do, we will help as much as we can.”

Residents crowded into Kinara Close as the fire took hold shortly before 11.30pm on Saturday.

Police cordoned off the street while firefighters battled to quell the fierce blaze, which started in the semi-detached house’s lounge.

Damian’s parents, David and Julie, had previously appealed for help to convert their bathroom to help their son.

In 1999, the couple celebrated after receiving a grant of more than £9,000 for the project to turn the home into an “accident free zone” for Damian.

Detective Inspector Lisa Atkinson, is leading the police investigation into the suspected arson.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police confirmed that the death was being treated as “suspicious” and made an appeal for information.

He said: “Five males have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, three have been released without charge and two men remain in police custody being interviewed by detectives.”

Anyone with information about the suspected arson should contact police on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.