Murder investigation launched following fatal fire in Waltham Forest

A murder investigation has been launched following a fatal fire that claimed the lives of two people.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Webb, leading the investigation for the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “We believe that there may have been an incident outside the address in Forest Road before the fire started and I am very keen to hear from anyone who witnessed something or perhaps has doorbell or dashcam footage.

“We are working hard to identify the two people who sadly died in the fire, not least so that their families and loved ones can be notified.”

Police were called at 22:24hrs on Sunday, 21 April to a report of a fire at a residential address in Forest Road, E17.

Officers attended alongside colleagues from the London Fire Brigade.

Firefighters extinguished the flames and sadly two people were found deceased inside the property. Work is ongoing to identify the victims and inform their next of kin.

Detectives believe that fire was started deliberately and a murder investigation is under way.

DCI Webb added: “Two people’s lives have been cut short as a result of this fire. If you have heard something or have information relating to the incident please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote CAD7022/21Apr.

You can also provide information 100 per cent anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.