Second youth charged in connection with fatal Dagenham fire

Detectives investigating a fatal fire in Dagenham have charged a second youth.

Robert Price, 76, died following a fire at a residential property in Oval Road North, Dagenham, on Saturday, 27 July.

A post-mortem examination held on Monday, 29 July gave the cause of death as inhalation of fire fumes and burns. Robert’s family have been informed and they are being supported by specialist officers. They have asked for privacy at this difficult time.

A 17-year-old boy [B] was charged on 30 July with murder and arson with intent to engender life. He appeared in custody at the Old Bailey on Friday, 2 August and was remanded to appear at the same court for a pre-trial plea hearing on Friday, 18 October.

A 16-year-old boy [C] was charged on 4 August with murder and arson with intent to engender life. He will appear in custody at Barkingside Youth Court on Monday, 5 August.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “I would like to reassure the community that while the investigation remains ongoing, police are not seeking to identify any further people in connection with the fatal fire on Oval Road North.

“I also ask that the privacy of Mr Price’s family is respected.”

Police continue to appeal for witnesses and information in relation to this incident.

If you were in the area of Oval Road North between 17:00hrs-18:00hrs on Saturday, 27 July and saw the incident or the events surrounding the incident then please get in touch. Any drivers who were passing through the area around that time and may have captured anything on dash cam are also urged to contact police.

If you have information that could assist, please contact officers on 101 or message @MetCC on X and quote CAD5619/27Jul. You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.