A mother of two has died after a fire believed to have started when an e-bike battery caught alight ripped through her family home in Kent. Leah Wagstaff had been fighting for her life in intensive care following the blaze. Her five-year-old son Charlie was also critically injured and remains in hospital, according to the latest published update.
Firefighters battle blaze in Maidstone
Leah's partner, Charlie Fuller, and their eight-year-old daughter Nellie were treated following the fire but were expected to recover, as reported by NeedToKnow. Emergency services raced to the property in Northumberland Road near Maidstone. Six fire engines were sent to the scene as flames tore through the home.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus battled the blaze using main jets and high-pressure hose reels. Leah and one of the children were rescued by fire crews. Another adult and child were helped from the burning property by members of the public, including two off-duty firefighters.
Tributes and investigation
All four members of the family were handed into the care of South East Coast Ambulance Service paramedics. Leah and her young son were later reported to have been admitted to intensive care. A family friend announced Leah's death on social media days later. Her childhood best friend, Abby Kitchenham, shared a tribute saying the pair had remained close from childhood into adulthood.
"They say it's rare to find a friend and instantly connect and stay best friends from kids to adulthood," she said. "I found that. I found you. And on Friday I lost you. We lost you in such an awful tragic way but I am so proud of you for saving your babies," Abby added. "My heart is in a million pieces and my body aches. I really hope you could hear me and feel me holding your hand. I honestly will never meet another person like you, Leah."
Community support and fundraiser
A silver and purple balloon release is due to be held in her memory at 4pm on Friday, 25 September. The poster reads: "Everyone is welcome to come. There will be her favourite songs played." Hundreds of devastated friends and members of the community have since paid tribute to the mum.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said its investigation found that the fire was believed to have started accidentally after an e-bike battery caught alight. Its latest public incident update confirms firefighting operations were completed and crews left the scene later that morning. The service has not publicly said whether the battery was being charged or whether it was defective, damaged or modified.
Ann Millington, chief executive of Kent Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Our thoughts are very much with everyone affected by a house fire in Northumberland Road, Maidstone. We also commend the brave actions of everyone who acted quickly to help rescue the four people inside the property, including the off-duty firefighters, members of the public and our crews."
A fundraiser established by Abby has now almost hit its £12,000 target. The appeal says the family lost its home and belongings and needs help with accommodation, clothes, food and essentials for the children. Abby wrote: "Right now, this family needs all the love, support and practical help we can give them. No family should have to think about replacing beds, clothing, school essentials and everyday belongings while their loved ones are in hospital."
