A coroner’s court has heard that there were no signs of neglect in the family home where three children tragically died in a house fire in East Ham last summer.
Siblings Nakash Malik, 13, Aayat Malik, 11, and Muhammad Hanan Malik, 7, lost their lives when a blaze tore through their terraced home on Napier Road shortly before 8.30am on July 13, 2024.
During a pre-inquest review hearing on Tuesday (March 25), investigators confirmed that early findings show no indication of neglect in the family environment, nor is there evidence the fire was started deliberately.
The London Fire Brigade is still preparing a detailed report on the cause of the fire, which will be handed over to the Metropolitan Police and other relevant agencies.
Inquest Delayed Pending Further Review
Senior Coroner Nadia Persaud told the children’s parents that the full inquest will not proceed until there is confirmation that no criminal or regulatory investigations are necessary.
“The inquest proceedings, because it’s inquisitorial, will not progress until I’m clear that there aren’t going to be any investigations by organisations such as the Metropolitan Police or the Health and Safety Executive,” she said.
“Please can I extend my sincere condolences to you both from the court. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
A provisional date of July 28 has been set for another pre-inquest review.
A Family Devastated
In a moving tribute issued via the Met Police, parents Khurram Malik and Naumana Gul Khan said:
“Your lives were a blessing, your memory a treasure.
You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.
May you rest in peace in God’s heaven.”
The incident saw six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackle the blaze, which engulfed both the ground and first floors of the property. Despite their efforts, the three children could not be saved.
Community in Mourning
The fire prompted a wave of sorrow across the East Ham community, with floral tributes and condolences pouring in from neighbours, schools, and faith groups. At the time, LFB Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne described the tragedy as “a terribly sad incident”, and said the brigade’s thoughts were with the family and all affected.
The Met Police confirmed shortly after the fire that there was no evidence of suspicious circumstances.
The full findings of the London Fire Brigade’s investigation are expected to provide more clarity on the cause of the fire. Until then, the community and grieving family await answers.
