Tragedy struck the village of Rushton, near Kettering, when a devastating fire engulfed a historic Grade II-listed former station master’s house on Friday night, claiming the lives of three people.
Emma Conn, 30, and her four-year-old daughter, Mayci Fox, both from Desborough, died alongside Louie Thorn, 23, in the blaze. A fourth person was taken to hospital.
Emergency services rushed to the property, located at Beswick Close, at around 10.30 pm on Friday. The house, a 19th-century building recently renovated from a long-derelict state, was left severely damaged, with a large hole burned through its roof.
Tragic Loss and Community Mourning
The deaths have shocked the close-knit community. Reverend Andy Giles, vicar of All Saints Church in Rushton, led prayers for the family during a Mothering Sunday service, describing the tragedy as “extremely shocking and saddening.” The church remained open throughout the day for people to gather, pray, and reflect.
Floral tributes have been laid near the property, and drone photos show the extent of the damage. Neighbors and friends have expressed their grief, describing the fire as “a complete inferno” and sharing their disbelief over the tragic loss.
Investigations Underway
Northamptonshire Police initially arrested a 54-year-old man on suspicion of murder. However, he has since been released, with authorities stating that there is no evidence of criminal wrongdoing.
Chief Inspector Paul Cash from Northamptonshire Police expressed his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, acknowledging the bravery of the emergency services and local residents who tried to help. He emphasized that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
Specialist fire investigators and investigation dogs are assisting in the inquiry. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service continued to dampen down the scene throughout Saturday.
Tributes to the Victims
Tributes poured in on social media, with one family member writing, “Forever 23” in memory of Louie Thorn. Emma Conn, who worked at a local salon, was remembered as a kind and caring individual. The salon announced that all her appointments were canceled, thanking customers for their understanding.
Mayci’s great-grandmother expressed her heartbreak, saying, “I have lost my great-granddaughter and her mum. It is just so sad.”
Residents of Rushton described the tragedy as deeply distressing, with many still trying to come to terms with the loss. One neighbor, Barbara, said, “It was a complete inferno and impossible to escape from. Our hearts go out to the families.”
Community Support
Mike Brightman, vice chairman of Rushton Parish Council, described the incident as a “very sad day for the village” and offered support to the affected families. Local pub workers described the atmosphere in the village as “distraught” and “traumatised.”
The historic former station master’s house, worth approximately £300,000, had been renovated into a family home after being derelict for many years.
The investigation continues as the community of Rushton mourns the tragic loss of life and comes together to support the grieving families.
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