Lancashire Police have confirmed that 13-year-old Coby Keogh died in hospital following a house fire in Blackpool, which investigators suspect was caused by an e-bike. The blaze occurred at a property on Redcar Road at approximately 9:37 AM on Tuesday, June 30.
Fire Details and Casualties
Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at the address, where they found a 13-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man with serious injuries. Both were rushed to hospital. In an update issued on Monday, July 6, police named the deceased as Coby Keogh and stated that he had succumbed to his injuries. Three other occupants of the house sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
A police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with Coby’s loved ones at this time, and they are being supported by specially trained officers. A file will be prepared for HM Coroner.”
E-Bike Suspected as Cause
Authorities from Lancashire Police and the fire and rescue service are conducting a joint investigation into the cause of the fire. Police stated that they do not suspect third-party involvement. “At this time, we believe the fire was started by an e-bike,” a police spokesman said.
The 19-year-old man, locally identified as Joey Gregory, remains in hospital in a serious condition. His mother shared an emotional message on Facebook on Saturday, July 4, urging her son to “keep fighting, sunshine.” She wrote: “We were told on Tuesday that the first 24-48 hours were critical. Then they said 72..... We are on day 5 and my boy is still here. Keep fighting sunshine, we ain't going nowhere. We are so lucky to have such amazing family and friends. My boy is so loved. I don't know where we are finding the strength from. Please keep praying.”
Appeal for Information
Police are appealing for anyone with information about the fire to contact them on 101, quoting log 0451 of June 30. The investigation continues as authorities seek to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragic incident.
