A heartbreaking fire that claimed the lives of three siblings in East Ham last summer was not caused by neglect, a coroner’s court heard.
Nakash Malik, 13, Aayat Malik, 11, and Muhammad Hanan Malik, 7, perished when a deadly blaze ripped through their terraced home on Napier Road just before 8.30am on July 13, 2024.
During Tuesday’s pre-inquest review on March 25, investigators revealed early findings show no signs of neglect or foul play. The London Fire Brigade is still preparing a detailed report on the fire’s cause, which will be passed to the Metropolitan Police and other agencies.
Senior Coroner Nadia Persaud told the grieving parents the full inquest is paused pending the results of criminal or regulatory investigations.
“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,” said Persaud. “Please can I extend my sincere condolences to you both from the court. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
A provisional date for the next review is set for July 28.
In an emotional statement via the Metropolitan Police, parents Khurram Malik and Naumana Gul Khan honoured their children: “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 fire saw six engines and around 40 firefighters battle flames that engulfed the ground and first floors of the property. Despite their efforts, the three children could not be saved.
East Ham residents, schools, and faith groups flooded the area with floral tributes and condolences.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne called it “a terribly sad incident” and extended his thoughts to the family.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire.
Full findings from the London Fire Brigade’s investigation are awaited as the community and family seek answers to this devastating tragedy.
Originally published by UKNIP.
