Murder investigation launched after woman dies and eight others injured in house fire

A murder investigation has been launched after a 48-year-old woman died and a further eight people were taken to hospital following a house fire in west London.

Emergency services, including the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service, were called to reports of a fire at the property on Berkeley Avenue, Hounslow just after 1am on Wednesday.

A 48-year-old woman died in hospital. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Another woman, aged 40, remains in a life-threatening condition.

The force said six men and one woman who were taken to hospital have since been discharged with minor injuries.

Images from the scene show a light-coloured terraced house that has been blackened on the outside, with window pains pealing and part of the upstairs eaves apparently melted.

The door appears badly affected and the fire damage reaches the neighbouring house.

A cordon stretching about 50 metres was in place on Wednesday evening as forensic officers and police worked on the residential road.

No arrests have been made.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, as well as everyone who has been injured.

“Our enquiries are progressing at pace as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire, which we believe may have been started deliberately.

“We understand this to be an isolated incident within a residential address; however, we understand it will cause concern within the local community.

“Officers will remain in the area throughout the day, and we will provide updates as our investigation continues.

“I would ask anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, to contact us.”

Anyone with information, or footage that may assist the investigation, is urged to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 359/19Aug.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.