Second teenager charged with murder after fatal Dagenham fire

76-year-old Robert Price died following the blaze in Oval Road North

Author: Ellie CloutePublished 5th Aug 2024

A 16-year-old has been charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life, after a fatal fire in Dagenham.

76-year-old Robert Price died after inhaling fumes from the fire at a home in Oval Road North, as well as burns.

The Met Police were called to the fire on Saturday July 27th, and have now charged to young people in connection with the fire.

On Friday, a 17-year-old youth, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, appeared at the Old Bailey charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life.

The court heard he was alleged to have been part of a group that deliberately started a fire at the home of the victim, who was described as a "vulnerable adult".

Although the defendant was not accused of throwing a firework himself during the alleged attack, the prosecution claimed he was part of the group.

The 16-year-old is due to appear at Barkingside Youth Court today, August 5th.

Mr Price's family continue to ask for privacy, as officers continue to appeal for witnesses.

The force say they're not searching for anyone else in connection with the fire.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.