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 people sustained injuries in the fire, requiring hospital treatment; a 40-year-old woman remains in a life-threatening condition. Seven individuals have since been discharged after receiving care for minor injuries.
The Metropolitan Police launched a murder investigation, though no arrests have been made. Emergency services responded to the residential property shortly after 1am on Wednesday, with police units arriving at 01:14 BST.
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.
The London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service also attended the scene on Berkeley Avenue. Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, leading the investigation, 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."
The Metropolitan Police claim the fire may have been started deliberately, a point echoed by Detective Chief Inspector Neil John. John affirmed: "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, according to Detective Chief Inspector Neil John. John 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, providing updates as the investigation continues. Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with CCTV, doorbell camera, or dashcam footage to come forward, with John urging: "I would ask anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, to contact us."