A third child has died after a house fire in east London, the Mayor of Newham has announced.
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to the blaze on Napier Road in East Ham just before 8.30am on Saturday, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.
In a statement on Monday night the Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz announced “with a heavy and broken heart” that a “third precious child” had died in hospital following the blaze.
Previously a child was found dead inside the property of the fire while a second child also died in hospital.
All three children were from the same family.
A further three people, believed to also be family members, were also taken to hospital following the fire, the Metropolitan Police said.
Two remain in hospital while a third person has been discharged and continues to be treated as an outpatient.
The force previously said there was no evidence to indicate suspicious circumstances and that enquiries are ongoing.
Enquiries are ongoing to identify and inform other family members. They will be supported by specially trained police officers
Ms Fiaz said: “Knowing that a third precious child has now died following the house fire on Napier Road in East Ham adds to the deep grief and sadness felt by our community here.
“Three children have now died from a family, and there really are no words to express how as a community we are reeling from the shock and horror of what a house fire can do. On behalf of everyone in Newham, my continuing condolences to all those who know and love the family afflicted by this horrendous tragedy.
“The family was part of a tight-knit community which is now grieving and we will do all we can to extend our helping hand. Our council staff have visited local schools attended by the children to ensure staff and pupils have access to whatever support is required.
“We are also working with London Fire Brigade to offer support and advice to the wider community who may be affected. We will continue to support the family and local community in whatever way we can while they come to terms with this heart-breaking loss.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Burks, one of the senior officers responsible for policing Newham, added: “It is our incredibly sad duty to report that a third child died in hospital yesterday Monday, 15 July.
“This is news that I know will cause even more upset in what has already been a devastating incident for the local community and beyond.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected. I reiterate that we will do all we can, alongside LFB, the local authority and other partners, to provide the family and local community with support and answers to their questions."
Half of the first floor and ground floor of the terraced house were damaged by the fire.
Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said all firefighters involved in the incident will be offered support from the brigade’s counselling and trauma service.
He said: “This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.
“Staff will be in the local community over the coming days to offer support and advice where needed.”
He added: “Sadly, one child was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday morning, and a second child died in hospital later that day. A third child died in hospital two days later, on 15 July. One other child and two adults were also taken to hospital.”
