Bradford house fire: Murder investigation launched after woman and three children die in blaze
A 39-year-old suspect is seriously ill in hospital as police say they believe the fire was started deliberately.
Wednesday 21 August 2024 16:12, UK
A murder investigation is under way after a woman and three children died in a house fire in Bradford.
The woman and three children have now been named by police - read the latest on this story here.
The blaze broke out at a semi-detached house on Westbury Road in the early hours of the morning.
Five fire service crews and police arrived just after 2am, but a 29-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
Three children - two girls aged nine and one, and a five-year-old boy - were taken to hospital but later died.
A man, 39, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and taken to hospital with critical injuries.
Forensics officers were at the house on Wednesday and about 100m of the road remained cordoned off.
Flowers have been left at the scene, with a message on one bunch reading: "I love you all, all this world and more. I will miss you forever. Miss you my beautiful angels."
"This is an absolutely devastating incident in which three children and a woman have lost their lives," said Detective Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson.
"Our thoughts remain with their family, friends and loved ones. Early inquiries show that the fire was started deliberately, and we have arrested one man on suspicion of murder.
"He is seriously ill in hospital today as a result of injuries caused by the fire."
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"While our inquiries are at an early stage, we do at this time believe the incident is domestic related," added DCI Atkinson.
"Specially trained officers are supporting the family, and we are working with local neighbourhood officers to carry out enquiries and provide reassurance in the area."
Police are appealing for anyone with information, such as doorbell cam video, to get in contact.