A murder investigation has been launched after a woman died and eight others were injured in a house fire in Hounslow, the Metropolitan Police has said.
Emergency services were called to a property on Berkley Avenue in the early hours of Wednesday following reports of a fire. Officers from the Met Police attended alongside the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.
Nine people were taken to hospital with injuries, where a 48-year-old woman later died. Her family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
Victims and Injuries
Another woman, aged 40, remains in hospital in a life-threatening condition. The remaining seven people, six men and one woman, have since been discharged after receiving treatment for minor injuries.
No arrests have been made at this stage.
Investigation Underway
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said: "Our thoughts are 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 enquiries are progressing at pace as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire, which we believe may have been started deliberately."
"We understand this to be an isolated incident within a residential address; however, we understand it will cause concern within the local community. Officers will remain in the area throughout the day, and we will provide updates as our investigation continues."
Appeal for Information
DCI John added: "I would ask anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, to contact us."
Anyone with information, or footage that may assist the investigation, is urged to contact police 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.
