'Nothing to indicate any third-party involvement' say police after fatal house fire
Specialist investigators remain at the scene of a house fire in Exeter where two adults and a girl aged 4 have died - and three other children were injured.
Last updated 21st Feb 2021
It broke out in the early hours of this morning on Clayton Road, off Bonhay Road in the St David’s area of Exeter.
Chief Superintendent Daniel Evans said: “It has now been confirmed that two adults, a 28-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man, plus a 4-year-old girl have all died following this house fire.
“Next of kin have been informed and we will be supporting those affected with specialist officers.
“Two boys aged 4 and 9, and a 7-year-old girl who were also in the house at the time of the fire remain in hospital. All three are currently in a stable condition, and all will be transferred to Bristol Children’s Hospital later today; all six within the property are related to each other.
“We are working closely with specialist scene investigators to help us understand how this tragic incident could have occurred, but currently there is nothing to indicate any third-party involvement in this matter and therefore we are not seeking anyone in connection to this fire at this time.
“We hope to release the wider cordon along Bonhay Road by this evening, but an inner cordon surrounding the property along with a scene guard will be in place for the next three days at least, whilst vital scene investigation work takes place.”
Chief Supt Evans added: “This is a deeply upsetting incident and one that will cause great distress to the community, particularly to those who knew the family.
“I don’t doubt that people will wish to leave a tribute and flowers at the scene. I ask that at this time the public give our officers space to undertake the vital investigative work at the scene, and we will update you all over the coming days in relation to a safe space where people can leave flowers or a tribute if they wish.”