Two heroic police officers have been praised for running into a burning building to rescue occupants in north west London.
Emergency services were called to reports of a blaze at a three-storey property above shops on Willesden High Road at around 1.10pm on Friday.
Around 60 firefighters and eight engines attended, rescuing two people from the roof.
Police were quickly on scene and immediately recognised the dangerous situation unfolding in front of them with smoke billowing from windows and reports of people still inside a flat on the first floor.
Two of them, along with members of the public, made their way upstairs.
As they directed residents out of the building, officers were alerted to a man who was trapped in an upper flat.
Two officers along with members of the public who entered a burning building in #Willesden #NW10 yesterday to rescue occupants have been lauded for their bravery.
— Brent MPS | North West BCU (@MPSBrent) December 14, 2024
Watch footage as an officer goes into the building... 👇 https://t.co/N9ciaLzd92 pic.twitter.com/idZmJOtt6v
Using a ladder located in a courtyard area at the back of the building, a member of the public managed to break a window and help him escape.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “Thankfully no-one was seriously injured.”
Three residents and one of the officers, aged in his 20s, were taken to hospital for treatment due to the effects of smoke inhalation. All are expected to make a full recovery.
The policeman remains in hospital. He and his colleague are being supported following the ordeal.
Commander Paul Trevers added: “The actions of these officers exemplifies the qualities that runs through the core of our officers in the Met Police – bravery, tenacity and above all a desire to keep the public safe when faced with danger.
.jpeg?trim=463%2C0%2C46%2C0)
“Confronted with a terrifying situation and knowing that people were at risk they did not hesitate in going into that building to protect the lives of others. I am immensely proud of their actions as I’m sure all Londoners will be.
“I would also like to praise the courage of the members of the public who, alongside our officers, helped ensure the safety of those inside the building.”
London Fire Brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladder was used at the scene as an observation platform.
Station Commander Chucks Abili said: “Crews worked hard to access the voids and bring the fire under control.
“The fire was producing heavy smoke, so we advised local residents keep their windows and doors closed.”
LFB mobilised crews from West Hampstead, Park Royal, North Kensington, Kentish Town and Wembley fire stations to the scene.
The fire was under control by 3.21pm and its cause is being investigated.
