Tragedy struck Newbury, West Berkshire last night as the entirety of Highclere Castle burned to a smoking ruin. Firefighters at the scene were unable to preserve the historic mansion or its occupants. An investigation by Scotland Yard is ongoing, but so far, there is no evidence of foul play. The fire was believed to have started in one of the faulty old fireplaces scattered throughout the building.
The 10th Earl of Carnarvon and his family are believed to have perished in the fire. He is survived by a brother, who will assume the title and become protector of the remaining estate.
Several famous paintings, part of the vast Carnarvon art collection, were destroyed, including masterworks by Van Dyck. A large collection of priceless Egyptian artifacts was housed within the castle, also believed to be destroyed by the fire.
Highclere Castle was the set of several popular trideo and television series, most notably "Downton Abbey" (as a television show) and the later trideo remake "The Nobles Are Screwing the Peasants Again", which ran for 10 seasons during the 50s. It was also notable for being next door to musical composer and magnate Andrew Lloyd Weber, who attempted to purchase the land many times throughout his lifetime. The Carnarvon family, who have lived in the mansion for generations, helped discover King Tut's tomb and were well-known Egyptologists.