A second child has died following a devastating house fire in East London, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has confirmed. The fire broke out on the ground and first floors of a terraced house on Napier Road in East Ham shortly before 08:30am on Saturday.
Neighbours described their desperate attempts to help the family escape, including throwing bricks to break windows.
LFB Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said, “Sadly, one child was pronounced dead at the scene yesterday morning, and overnight a second child died in hospital. Two other children and two adults were also taken to hospital, where the children and one adult remain in a serious condition.
All six individuals are believed to be members of the same family who lived at the house, according to a Metropolitan Police spokesperson. There is currently “no evidence to indicate suspicious circumstances.”
The LFB reported that 40 firefighters responded to the blaze. Details about the identities or ages of the children have not been released, as officers work to locate and inform other family members.
Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Burks expressed his condolences: “I appreciate that local people will be shocked and saddened by this tragic event.” He added that the police would collaborate with the LFB and local council to provide the family with support and answers.
