A murder investigation has been launched following a house fire in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, that has claimed two lives and left four others requiring hospital treatment. The fire broke out on Birchington Avenue shortly after 5am, prompting emergency services to rush to the residential street.
Fatalities confirmed and injuries reported
Cleveland Police has confirmed the two fatalities, though the scene is still undergoing full examination. Next of kin have been informed, and a woman remains in the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle in a critical condition, while three others are being treated for injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
Six fire engines attended the incident, and the public has been urged to avoid the area when possible, with further updates anticipated. The property has sustained significant damage from the blaze, with the roof severely affected, alongside smoke damage and shattered windows.
Police statement on the investigation
Superintendent Emily Harrison, Redcar and Cleveland Local Policing Commander, said: "This is a tragic incident which has sadly resulted in the deaths of a number of people this morning, and their families are being supported by specially trained officers.
"We are working to establish the circumstances of exactly what has happened, but we are keeping an open mind and cannot rule out any links to wider organised crime at this time. We will have a high visibility presence in the Grangetown area as this investigation progresses, and to provide reassurance to local communities, who will no doubt be impacted by this tragic incident."
She added: "We encourage anyone who has concerns, or who may have information regarding the incident in the early hours of this morning, to approach one of our officers or to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference number 170941, or Crimestoppers anonymously, either online, or by calling 0800 555 1111."
Emergency services respond
A spokesperson for Cleveland Fire Brigade confirmed: "Cleveland Fire Brigade was called at 05:23 this morning (26 August) to an incident on Birchington Avenue, Grangetown. Crews are currently dealing with a house fire, with six fire engines and the Incident Command Unit at the scene.
"Road closures are in place in the surrounding area, and we are asking members of the public to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency services to work safely. The incident remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided when available."
A representative from North East Ambulance Service also stated: "We were called to a fire at a private address in Grangetown, Middlesbrough at 5:17am on Wednesday 26 August.
"We dispatched five ambulance crews, one specialist paramedic, two clinical team leaders, one duty officer, one HART resource (Hazardous Area Response Team). Four patients were taken to James Cook University Hospital for further treatment."
Anna Turley, MP for Redcar and Cleveland, posted this statement on social media: "A very serious incident is ongoing on Birchington Avenue in Grangetown this morning. Cleveland Fire Brigade and other emergency services are at the scene, and road closures are in place.
"Please avoid the area and give crews the space they need to respond safely. My thoughts are with everyone affected, and with our emergency services dealing with what is clearly a very difficult situation."
For the latest developments and additional details regarding the distressing incident and its consequences, you can access our dedicated live blog here.
