A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with a fatal house fire in Hounslow, west London. The suspect was taken into custody by Kent Police on Sunday while traveling on a train to France.
The arrest follows an investigation into a fire that occurred at an address on Berkeley Avenue. Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 1:14 a.m. on Wednesday, August 19. Metropolitan Police officers, along with firefighters and paramedics, responded to reports of the blaze.
Nine individuals were transported to local hospitals. Despite the efforts of medical staff, a 48-year-old woman died from her injuries. Her next-of-kin have been notified and are being supported by specially trained officers. Another woman, aged 40, remains in the hospital in a life-threatening condition.
The remaining seven injured parties, consisting of six men and one woman, have since been released from the hospital after receiving treatment for minor injuries.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, stated that the Metropolitan Police's thoughts are with the victim's family and those who were injured. He confirmed the ongoing investigation is proceeding rapidly and that detectives are working to establish a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident, pursuing multiple lines of inquiry.
Police are appealing to anyone with information or footage that could assist the investigation to contact them by calling 101 and quoting reference CAD 359/19Aug. Information can also be provided anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers via their website or by calling 0800 555 111.