UK

Girl, 14, arrested following fatal house fire

One person died in the blaze at a property in Bedale Drive in Leicester, police said.

Flowers and tributes left at the scene of a house fire in Bedale Drive, Leicester
Flowers and tributes left at the scene of a house fire in Bedale Drive, Leicester (Jacob King/PA)

A 14-year-old girl has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fatal house fire.

Police were called to a property in Bedale Drive, Leicester, just after 4am on Tuesday, where a person was found dead inside.

Other people in the house received hospital treatment as a “precaution”, Leicestershire Police said.

According to reports, six-year-old Chamiah Brindley died in the blaze.

The 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the incident but has been released on bail.

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The force said detectives are “keeping an open mind” as they investigate the circumstances leading up to the incident.

Detective Inspector Michael Chandler said: “This is an extremely tragic incident in which a person has sadly lost their life.

“Our investigation is at a very early stage and we are keeping an open mind as to what caused the fire.

“A dedicated team is carrying out inquiries and we are working closely with the fire service to fully establish what has happened and how it has happened.

“Specially trained officers are also continuing to provide full support to the family of the deceased.

“I understand this incident will have caused distress and concern in the community and officers remain in the area to offer support and reassurance. They are there for you so please do speak with them.”

The force is asking anyone with information to contact officers in the area, report online at www.leics.police.uk, or call 101, quoting incident 69 of September 10.