Grangetown fire update after two dead at Birchington Avenue

Emergency services, including six fire engines were called to a house fire on Birchington Avenue at 5.23am on August 26 where sadly, two people have been confirmed dead.

Four people have been taken to James Cook University Hospital for further treatment.

The fire service has confirmed the fire has now been extinguished and have released an updated statement.

Emergency services at the scene of a major residential fire on Birchington Avenue, in Grangetown, Middlesbrough (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)

The force said: “Following Cleveland Fire Brigade’s attendance at a house fire on Birchington Avenue, Grangetown, this morning (Wednesday, August 26), we can confirm that the fire has now been extinguished.

“Six fire appliances from Grangetown, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Saltburn attended the incident, along with the Incident Command Unit. One appliance remains at the scene on protective standby.

“We can confirm that six people were inside the property at the time of the fire. Tragically, two people have died.

“One person remains in a critical condition, while three others are receiving treatment.

“The circumstances surrounding this tragic incident will now be jointly investigated by Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade’s fire investigation officers.

“It is with great sadness that we share this update. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of everyone affected at this incredibly difficult time.”

Firefighters were spotted dampening down the smoking roof of the home which has been wrecked by the fire.

A ladder was also seen propped against a rear upstairs window of the family home.

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: “My daughter heard shouting and screaming this morning. The dogs were barking.”

The neighbour said a family lived at the house, adding: “I don’t know the people who live there, we just say hello when we walk past.”

Another resident said: “It’s just horrible, we were all in bed when it happened.”

While another added it was a “tragic incident for this area.”

Emergency services at the scene of a major residential fire on Birchington Avenue, in Grangetown, Middlesbrough (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)

Police officers continue to guard a cordon around the scene.

Redcar and Cleveland Local Policing Commander, Superintendent Emily Harrison, said: “This is a tragic incident which has sadly resulted in the deaths of a number of people this morning, and their families are being supported by specially trained officers.

 “We are working to establish the circumstances of exactly what has happened, but we are keeping an open mind and cannot rule out any links to wider organised crime at this time.

“We will have a high visibility presence in the Grangetown area as this investigation progresses, and to provide reassurance to local communities, who will no doubt be impacted by this tragic incident.

 “We encourage anyone who has concerns, or who may have information regarding the incident in the early hours of this morning, to approach one of our officers or to contact Cleveland Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anna Turley, MP for Redcar & Cleveland added: “I am devastated to hear of the tragic loss of life following this morning’s fire in Grangetown.

“My deepest condolences are with the families, friends and loved ones of those who have died, and my thoughts are also with those injured and receiving treatment.

“Our community has faced a profound amount of heartbreak over the past few weeks.

“Please keep everyone affected in your thoughts, give the emergency services the space they need, and avoid speculation as Cleveland Police & emergency services continue their investigation.”