Detectives confirm death of third child following fire in East Ham

Detectives have sadly confirmed that a child who was critically ill following a fire in East Ham has died in hospital.

Emergency services were called to a house on Napier Road at about 08:32hrs on Saturday, 13 July, following reports of a fire.

Officers attended alongside colleagues from London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.

Sadly, one child was found dead inside the property. Another child was taken to hospital but tragically later died.

Two other people remain in hospital. A third person has been discharged and continues to be treated as an outpatient.

All six people are believed to be members of the same family, who lived at the house on Napier Road.

Enquiries are ongoing to identify and inform other family members. They will be supported by specially trained police officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Burks, one of the senior officers responsible for policing Newham, said: “It is our incredibly sad duty to report that a third child died in hospital yesterday Monday, 15 July. This is news that I know will cause even more upset in what has already been a devastating incident for the local community and beyond.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected. I reiterate that we will do all we can, alongside LFB, the local authority and other partners, to provide the family and local community with support and answers to their questions."

Officers are investigating the cause of the fire alongside London Fire Brigade colleagues. At this very early stage, there is no evidence to indicate suspicious circumstances. Enquiries are ongoing.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation who has yet to speak with police is asked to call 101 and quote reference 1996/13jul.