Murder Probe Launched After Fatal Hounslow Fire
One woman dead and nine hospitalised following blaze on Berkley Avenue; police investigate deliberate ignition.
Sarah Connor
A woman died in a fire in west London, prompting a murder investigation.
Eight other people sustained injuries in the fire and were taken to hospital. A 40-year-old woman remains in a life-threatening condition.
A murder investigation has been launched into the incident; no arrests have been made.
Emergency services were called to the residential property shortly after 1am on Wednesday. Metropolitan Police arrived at 01:14 BST, with the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service also attending the scene.
Seven individuals have since been discharged after receiving treatment for minor injuries.
Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, as well as everyone who has been injured.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John stated, "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, as well as everyone who has been injured."
Police and Detective Chief Inspector Neil John claim the fire may have been started deliberately. John further noted, "Our enquiries are progressing at pace as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire, which we believe may have been started deliberately."
The incident is understood to be an isolated event within a residential address, a claim echoed by Detective Chief Inspector Neil John. He added, "We understand this to be an isolated incident within a residential address; however, we understand it will cause concern within the local community."
Officers will remain in the area throughout the day, and updates will be provided as the investigation continues. Detective Chief Inspector Neil John urged the public, "I would ask anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, to contact us."