Murder investigation launched following fatal fire in Hounslow

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman in Hounslow.

Police were called to an address on Berkeley Avenue, Hounslow at 01:14hrs on Wednesday, 19 August following reports of a fire.

Officers attended the scene alongside the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service before. Nine people were taken to hospital as a result of their injuries.

Despite best efforts of medical staff, a 48-year-old woman sadly died in hospital. Her next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Another woman, aged 40, remains in hospital in a life-threatening condition.

The remaining seven people - six men and one woman – have since been discharged after receiving treatment for minor injuries.

A murder investigation has since been launched. No arrests have been made at this early stage.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said:

"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.

"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.

"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 we will provide updates as our investigation continues.

"I would ask anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, to contact us."

Anyone with information, or footage that may assist the investigation, is urged to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 359/19Aug.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.