A Nottingham house fire killed two people after a tealight ignited a sofa, a coroner has ruled. Paul Cox, 51, and Jennifer Batterbee, 40, died in the house fire in Whittier Road, Sneinton, on March 26 last year.
Firefighters arrived on scene to what was described as a well-developed fire and entered the mid-terraced house wearing breathing apparatus. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to the incident at 12.42am by the couple’s neighbour, who called 999 after hearing noises and seeing an amber glow from the property.
An inquest took place on Thursday (January 19) into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The hearing was told how the pair died from smoke inhalation after a tealight set fire to a sofa in their front room. The cause of the fire was ruled as accidental ignition by Fiona Gingell, Assistant Coroner for Nottinghamshire.
Read more: Another tax rise planned as Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service faces deficit
Ms Gingell said in her closing statement: “The most probable cause of the fire is accidental ignition to the arm of the sofa in the front room of the property. Ignition was most likely a naked flame from a tealight. This was a tragic incident, and I am satisfied that there are no suspicious circumstances."
She addedL “I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to Paul and Jennifer’s family and friends. I know they will both be greatly missed.”
Station Manager Tom Clark, lead fire investigator for the incident, said: “On arrival this fire was incredibly intense, and my thanks go out to the crews and control room staff involved.
“We know candles are used in most homes, but I would urge everyone to remember the dangers they present. Take care to ensure that they are in correct holders, on a stable base, and kept away from anything that could catch fire. Never leave a naked flame unattended.
“Everyone at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service would like to offer our sincere condolences to Mr Cox and Ms Batterbee’s families for their sad loss.” Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service raised awareness after the inquest conclusion that free Safe and Well Visit can be arranged by visiting their website.
At the time of the tragedy, residents spoke of their shock at news of what had happened.
Read next:
- Secretary of State makes recommendation over murderer Gary Salmon's release bid
- Care home in 'special measures' after residents 'at risk of harm'
- AA travel warning as forecasters predict snow could hit Nottinghamshire
- Nervous neighbour waiting for 'defecating louts' Red Arrows fans
- Mum who died from 'accidental overdose' found by daughter
