Three children are among five members of the same family who died in a house fire in Hounslow, west London, on Sunday night. The bodies were discovered on the first floor of a terraced property in Channel Close by London Fire Brigade crews.
One person remains unaccounted for, and a man is in hospital following the blaze, which was reported at 22:30 GMT and brought under control by 01:25. Around 70 firefighters and 10 fire engines attended the scene.
Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson described the incident as 'truly a terrible incident' causing 'unimaginable stress and pain'. He said police and the London Fire Brigade are keeping an 'open mind' about the cause and will work tirelessly to find answers.
Deputy Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith stated it is too early to determine if fireworks or candles for Diwali celebrations were a factor. Residents reported seeing smoke and hearing fireworks in the area around the time of the fire.
Local MP Seema Malhotra expressed shock and urged the public to keep an open mind as investigations continue. Mayor Sadiq Khan and Fire Commissioner Andy Roe offered condolences and support to the community.
