Metropolitan Police officers praised for bravery following Willesden fire
Three people and a police officer currently remain in hospital after the blaze
Two Metropolitan Police officers have been commended for their bravery after they rescued several residents trapped inside a burning building in Willesden.
Officers were first alerted to the incident at around 1:10pm on Friday evening (December 13th), and responders were deployed to the three-storey building.
When police arrived on the scene at High Street in northwest London, they understood the gravity of the situation, with smoke billowing from the windows.
There were reports that people had been trapped within a flat on the first floor of the building, prompting two officers - along with other members of the public to attempt to rescue those stuck inside.
The rescue team entered the building through the ground floor and made their way to the first floor to release those stuck inside.
However, shortly after - officers were made aware of a man who had been caught in another flat upstairs.
Using a ladder that had been left in the courtyard, a member of the public was able to climb the ladder to break the window and help the man escape.
Following the incident, it was determined that no one was seriously injured; however, one officer and three members of the public were taken to hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation.
The officer currently remains in hospital, but all three who were taken to be seen by doctors are expected to make a full recovery.
Speaking about the incident, Commander Paul Trevers from the Metropolitan Police commended the officers on their willingness to help the public.
"The actions of these officers exemplifies the qualities that runs through the core of our officers in the Met police – bravery, tenacity and above all a desire to keep the public safe when faced with danger," he said.
"Confronted with a terrifying situation and knowing that people were at risk they did not hesitate in going into that building to protect the lives of others. I am immensely proud of their actions as I’m sure all Londoners will be.
"I would also like to praise the courage of the members of the public who, alongside our officers, helped ensure the safety of those inside the building."