Child dies and five people in hospital after fire in east London

A child has died and five people are in hospital after a house fire in east London.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to the blaze on Napier Road in East Ham at just before 8.30am on Saturday, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.

Half of the first floor and half of the ground floor of a terraced house were damaged by the fire, which was under control by 9.10am.

LFB assistant commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said: “This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.

“Staff will be in the local community over the coming days to offer support and advice where needed. The welfare of our staff is very important and all those involved will be offered support from our counselling and trauma service.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Scotland Yard said enquiries are ongoing to trace the child’s next of kin.

A number of local road closures have been put in place while emergency services deal with the fire.

Rokshana Fiaz, mayor of Newham, said in a statement: “It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the tragic house fire that occurred this morning on Napier Road in East Ham, which has resulted in the heart breaking loss of a young child.

“On behalf of the entire Newham community, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and all those affected by this devastating incident. Our hearts go out to the five individuals who were treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service and subsequently taken to the hospital.

“Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne of the London Fire Brigade has expressed his sincere condolences, emphasizing that the thoughts of all members of the Brigade are with those impacted during this incredibly difficult time. We are grateful for the swift response of the emergency services.

“In the coming days, Newham Council staff will be working in partnership with the London Fire Brigade in the local community to offer support and advice to anyone in need. As we await the results of the ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire, let us come together as a community to support one another and extend a helping hand to those in grief.”