A thirteen-year-old schoolgirl lost her life in a devastating house fire in Merseyside last year, with an inquest hearing the blaze likely ignited on her bunk bed with a cigarette lighter as she slept.
The Fatal Night in Prescot
Layla Allen was trapped inside her family home on Kingsway in Prescot when fire tore through the property shortly before midnight on 2 April. Firefighters rushed to the scene after reports of a blaze in a first-floor rear bedroom.
Upon arrival, they found Layla's parents, Shaun Allen and Michelle McGurry, outside with their five other children. The 'charismatic' teenager was discovered in her bedroom, lying still on the top bunk of a bunk bed. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Neighbours described waking to screams and hearing a man shout 'jump, I'll get you outside the window' as flames engulfed the house.
Investigation Points to Accidental Ignition
Ruth Baller-Wilson, the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service investigation officer, led the probe. She stated the burn pattern indicated the fire started on the top bunk, developing within bedding before spreading to the mattress, aided by oxygen from an open window.
Ms Baller-Wilson noted Layla was fit and healthy and was not trapped. "Therefore I believe it's more likely she was asleep at the time," she told the inquest. She added that even if Layla's clothes had ignited, she would have been expected to attempt an escape.
While a definite cause could not be established, the investigation concluded it was 'more likely than not' caused by a live flame, such as a lighter. Two lighters not belonging to her parents were found inside.
Inquest Hears of Evidential Challenges
At the hearing on 16 January, coroner Anita Bhardwaj explained that police were unable to interview the other children present due to concerns about causing them further harm. The family and children's social care supported this decision, which prevented the gathering of further evidence.
Merseyside Police found no evidence of involvement from anyone outside the home. In a tragic twist, this was the second fire at the property in less than a year. The family had previously moved out after a blaze in July and had only returned in November following safety improvements.
In a heartfelt tribute released in April, Layla's family described her as a "shining light" who was funny, charismatic, and quick-witted. They said she loved TikTok, makeup, and drawing, and was a "typical, happy, and full-of-life 13-year-old."
Floral tributes and cards were left outside the home, with one reading: "I will forever miss you Layla, fly high my beautiful friend." A local resident described Layla as a "lovely girl" and expressed deep sympathy for her family.
