A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following a fatal house fire in Hounslow that claimed the life of a 48-year-old woman and left another woman fighting for her life in hospital.
The fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday, August 19, on Berkeley Avenue in Hounslow, west London. Emergency services were called to the scene, where nine people were found injured and taken to hospital.
Victim identified and injuries detailed
The woman who died, aged 48, succumbed to her injuries in hospital. Another woman, aged 40, remains in a critical condition and is still fighting for her life. The other seven victims—six men and one woman—have since been discharged after receiving treatment for minor injuries.
Police have confirmed that the suspect, a 34-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of murder earlier today, Sunday, August 23, while travelling on a train to France. He is currently in custody.
Investigation and appeal for witnesses
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain 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 investigation is continuing at pace and we have arrested one man in connection with the incident. Detectives are continuing to build a full picture of the circumstances surrounding the incident and are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry.
“We continue to ask any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to please contact us as soon as possible.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and police are urging anyone with information or footage that may assist the investigation to contact them 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.
