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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Anthony France

Boy, 16, charged with murder after ‘vulnerable’ pensioner killed in Dagenham firework attack

A second youth has been accused of murdering a 76-year-old man in an alleged firework attack on his home.

Robert Price died from inhalation of fumes and burns following a blaze at the house in east London at around 5.40pm on July 27.

Firefighters forced entry to the property on Oval Road North, Dagenham, and found Mr Price’s body.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, the Metropolitan Police said.

On Sunday, a 16-year-old boy was accused of murder and arson with intent to engender life.

He will appear in custody at Barkingside Youth Court on Monday.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, investigating the killing, said: “I would like to reassure the community that while the investigation remains ongoing, police are not seeking to identify any further people in connection with the fatal fire on Oval Road North.”

Fire started on Oval Road North (Google Maps)

On Friday, a 17-year-old male, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was remanded into custody at the Old Bailey charged with the same offences.

The court heard he was alleged to have been part of a group that deliberately started a fire at the home of the victim, who was described as a “vulnerable adult”.

Although the defendant was not accused of throwing a firework himself during the alleged attack, the prosecution claim he was part of the group.

He spoke only to confirm his identity and date of birth when he appeared in court by video link.

Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC set a plea hearing for October 18 and a provisional trial for May 12 next year.

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