Man arrested in connection with Blackpool fire which killed a woman
Lancashire Police say they've arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter
Police investigating a house fire in Blackpool which killed a woman earlier this month have arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter.
A number of people, including two teenagers, managed to escape when the blaze broke out in a property on Hill Street in the early hours of the morning on July 6th.
A woman in her 40s was treated at the scene but despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she was sadly pronounced deceased at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
A man in his 50s was taken to Wythenshaw Hospital where he remains in a serious but stable condition.
Three others aged 26, 13 and 16 were also taken to hospital with less serious injuries.
A joint investigation between the police and fire service has been on-going to try to establish the cause of the fire and investigators now believe the most likely cause was a battery on an e-scooter.
Det Chief Insp Lee Wilson, of Blackpool Police, said: “My thoughts first and foremost remain with the loved ones of the woman who very sadly lost her life in this fire.
"While we have made an arrest our enquiries are still at a really early stage and may take some considerable time. We continue to work closely with our colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and I would appeal for anyone with any information to get in touch.
Area Manager Mark Hutton, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention and Protection, said: “First and foremost our thoughts are with the family and friends of everyone who has been affected by this tragic incident”.
“Fires involving lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters and bikes are becoming more common and tend to start and grow very quickly.
"As with all rechargeable electrical goods, there are some simple steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk of fire. E-bikes and e-scooters should only be purchased from reputable retailors and should always be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
"Always charge batteries whilst you are awake using the charger supplied with the product and do so in a place that is well away from your escape routes. As ever, it is vitally important to have working smoke alarms, ideally one per floor”.