The family of a seven-year-old girl killed in a house fire in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, have paid tribute to her, saying she will be "missed beyond words". Valentina Foster and her aunt, Natalie McDonald, 34, died following the blaze at an end-of-terrace property in Birchington Avenue.
Family tribute to Valentina
Cleveland Police released a tribute from the family which read: "It is with overwhelming sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved daughter has passed away. She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words by her family, friends, and everyone whose life she touched. Our lives have changed forever, and we are struggling to come to terms with this devastating loss."
The tribute continued: "Our daughter will always be in our hearts, and her memory will live with us forever. Forever missed by her brothers and sisters."
Court appearance and charges
The tribute came after 23-year-old Jaden Wright appeared before Teesside Magistrates' Court for a two-minute hearing on Tuesday. He is charged with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
Wright, with dark hair and wearing a grey T-shirt, was remanded in custody to appear before Teesside Crown Court on Thursday. A 31-year-old man who was also arrested in connection with the case was released without charge on Sunday.
Injuries and investigation
Four other people were injured in the fire, which happened around 5.30am on Wednesday. Two people remain in hospital receiving treatment. A 48-year-old woman is fighting for her life in Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary, and a 27-year-old man is receiving treatment at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough. Two others, who cannot be identified by the media due to their age, were also injured.
Katie Smith, senior investigating officer from Northumbria Police, said: "This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved. I would like to thank local residents for their support and patience during this complex investigation. Anyone who may still have information, or has any concerns, can still submit information using the major incident public portal."
Katie Nicholson, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, said: "Our prosecutors have worked closely with Cleveland Police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court. We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings."
