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Police investigate explosion, fire at Celtic F.C. CEO Peter Lawwell's home

Cassandra Negley
WNBA and women's college basketball reporter
·2 min read

Police are investigating an explosion and fire at the home of Celtic F.C. Chief Executive Peter Lawwell, authorities in Scotland said. He is in his final weeks leading the Scottish club.

The fire caused significant damage to the home and vehicles at a property in Thortonhall, a village outside of Glasgow, where Celtic is based. Lawwell and his family are safe and uninjured.

The club confirmed the incident in a statement via Twitter.

"We can confirm that significant damage has been caused to Peter Lawwell’s house and vehicles there, following an explosion and fire early this morning, forcing the family to leave the property."

"Clearly, Peter’s family are extremely shaken and shocked by these terrible events, but thankfully all are safe."

"We understand that Police Scotland are currently undertaking a criminal investigation."

"Peter and his family will of course receive the full support and care of everyone at the Club."

Police were called around 1 a.m. local time, per Reuters, on reports of cars on fire. The fire spread to the detached two-story property, The Athletic reported.

Eight fire engines came to the home. Lawwell was in the home with his wife and possibly his daughter and granddaughter, per The Athletic. They were able to escape and no one was injured. Police are working with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fire.

Lawwell stepping down as CEO

Peter Lawwell
Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell, shown at a February match, experienced a fire at his home. (Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images)

Lawwell is set to step down from his role as CEO in June after 17 years leading the Scottish Premier club. Under his leadership, Celtic won 29 trophies and reached the Champions League last 16 teams a total of three times.

But the past season was a struggle. The rival Rangers won the Scottish Premier League handily, denying Celtic a 10th straight title, and Celtic fell in the second qualifying round for the Champions League.

Lawwell is currently in the handover period as Dominic McKay, the former chief operating officer at Scottish Rugby, prepares to take over for him.

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