The 45th anniversary of the New Cross fire, which killed 13 black teenagers in a suspected racist attack in 1981, has been marked in London. The blaze tore through a house party in south-east London, leading to widespread outrage and the National Black People's Day of Action. No one has ever been charged, and the case remains unsolved.
The fire occurred on 18 January 1981 at 439 New Cross Road, where Yvonne Ruddock was celebrating her 16th birthday. Thirteen young people died, more than 50 were injured, and one guest later died from trauma. Survivor Wayne Hayes, then 17, suffered severe burns and 163 broken bones, requiring 140 skin grafts.
Many in the black community believe the fire was a racist attack, possibly by fascists using a petrol bomb. A second inquest in 2004 accepted the fire was started deliberately but rejected the racist motive, returning open verdicts. Local history includes previous firebomb attacks on Caribbean house parties and community venues.
Film-maker Menelik Shabazz documented the fire and community response in his film 'Blood Ah Go Run', drawing parallels to the Grenfell Tower fire. The anniversary has prompted reflection on the legacy of the fire and ongoing issues of racial injustice in Britain.
