A murder investigation has been launched after a 48-year-old woman died and eight people were taken to hospital following a fire at a home in Hounslow in the early hours of Wednesday, police said.
Emergency services were called to Berkeley Avenue just after 1am following reports of a blaze. The woman died in hospital, while another woman, aged 40, remains in a life-threatening condition.
Injuries and Discharges
Six men and one woman have been discharged from hospital with minor injuries. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a murder inquiry is now under way, but no arrests have been made.
Police Statement
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."
