The brother of a woman who died in a house fire near Middlesbrough has said she was not involved in gangs as police investigate potential links between the deadly blaze and a car crash that killed seven people.
Two people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after police were called to a house fire at 5:23am on Wednesday August 26, in the Grangetown area of Middlesbrough. Natalie McDonald, 34, and her seven-year-old niece, Valentina Foster, died in the blaze. Cleveland Police have stated they have not ruled out a link between the blaze at the end-of-terrace property and the A66 crash on Saturday morning.
Brother's statement
The development comes after twelve people aged between 19 and 61 have been arrested by officers investigating the events leading up to the crash on the A66. Josh Kirton, the brother of 34-year-old Natalie McDonald, has stated: “My sister was not involved with anything to do with gangs, or the (crash on the) A66.
“That’s what makes this so senseless. People think they can do whatever they like. There’s some terrible people in the world and now my sister and Valentina have gone.”
Tributes left at the scene
Today tributes were left outside the house, including a photo of the pair among bouquets of flowers and toys, with the words: “RIP Natalie and Valentina you will be missed.” A Care Bear was left, along with a teddy bear and a note which read: “Now she dances with butterflies Valentina.” Another message said: “Valentina what a lovely young girl, so sad, RIP.”
Birchington Avenue has reopened, but a strong police presence remained outside the home which was ripped apart by the fire.
Police investigation ongoing
Two men, aged 23 and 31, remain in police custody after they were arrested on suspicion of murder following the fire. Three other people suffered injuries, with one of them in a critical condition.
Superintendent Emily Harrison said on Wednesday evening: “As we continue to investigate this morning’s tragic incident, we continue to support the families of those who have sadly died as a result. Our thoughts remain with those families and with everyone involved.
“Two men, aged 23 and 31, remain in police custody at this time and they are being questioned. We continue to work 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 and encourage anyone who has concerns, or who may have information, to approach our officers or alternatively call us on 101.”
