In a heart-wrenching incident late on Friday night, a devastating house fire in Croydon has led to several fatalities. The London Fire Brigade, supported by ambulance crews, paramedics, and specialized “HART” teams from the London ambulance service, rushed to the scene at Sanderson Road just after 11 pm. Despite their valiant efforts, several individuals succumbed to the intense smoke and flames.

The property, reportedly occupied by Polish nationals believed to be squatters, was engulfed in flames, prompting the deployment of six fire engines and an aerial ladder.

Alarmed neighbours were quick to notify the authorities as they witnessed smoke and flames erupting from the boarded-up building.

Emergency personnel were seen performing CPR, intubation, and chest compressions in a desperate attempt to save lives on the streets. The situation was dire, with the medical teams fighting against the clock to revive the affected individuals.

The Metropolitan Police, in conjunction with the London Fire Brigade, has initiated a joint investigation to unravel the cause of the blaze. As of now, the origin of the fire remains a mystery, and the authorities are working diligently to determine the circumstances that led to this tragedy.

Two of those involved in the fire were rescued by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus in a blaze that has spread to 80% across two floors within the property.

It is understood that two people have died at the scene a third was taken to hospital by ambulance not breathing and two others self-presented at the Croydon hospital. Crime scene tents have been erected outside the smoke-covered property.

The area around the incident remains cordoned off as a crime scene, with road closures still in effect. The London Ambulance Service,the Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade have been contacted for further statements and details regarding this tragic event.

Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. The community has been left shaken by this calamity, and efforts are underway to provide support to those affected. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available

Update 03:46 A Spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said that three people had been rescued by the service Six fire engines had been sent to the incident and a joint investigation between the LFB and the Met Police has been launched into the cause of the blaze. The spokesman was unable to confirm the conditions of those rescued and went on to say further details will be released late in the morning.

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said:

“On Friday 29 December at 10.45pm we were called to reports of a fire in Sanderstead Road, Croydon.

“We sent several resources to the incident. We remain on scene alongside colleagues from the London Fire Brigade.”