UK: Neighbours describe shock as elderly couple and dog killed in ‘Devastating’ Fire
A fire that killed an elderly couple and their dog in Croydon last night has been described as “devastating” by neighbours.
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters rushed to the blaze on Windermere Road in Addiscombe just after 8pm (January 5), but they were unable to save the man and woman who died at the scene.
Forensics were seen photographing inside the house this morning as police officers and the London Fire Brigade (LFB) continue to investigate the fire, the cause of which is unknown.
A family member also confirmed the couple’s dog was killed in the incident, while MyLondon understands their son, who was living with them, was unharmed.
Speaking to MyLondon, Emma, who lives on the adjacent Capri Road, described seeing the couple walking around their garden and opening their curtains in the day.
She said: “It’s terrible. They were at least in their 70s. It’s very sad. They always had fairy lights on.”
She added she had seen big flashlights last night but had no idea what they were for.
Another neighbour described smelling the fire and thinking it was their own house, but did not realise what had happened.
They added: “We smelt something electrical like if plugs burnt.”
Another neighbour, who wished to be anonymous, said: “They have lived there for a long time. It’s devastating really.”
Javad Ehmad, living a few doors away, said: “I have a very bad feeling, this is not good.”
A carer was also seen arriving to work at the house this morning, only to be informed by police about the tragic news.
In a statement, the LFB said: “Two people have sadly died in a house fire on Windermere Road in Addiscombe.
“Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to the fire at a detached house.
“The ground floor of the building was damaged by the fire.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus found one man and one woman inside the property.
“They were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
“The Brigade was called at 8.08pm and the fire was under control by 8.59pm.
“Fire crews from Woodside, Croydon and Beckenham fire stations attended.
“The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Brigade and the Metropolitan Police Service.”
News Source: My London
