In a tragic incident, a man and a woman in their 20s have died, and their two children are in hospital after a fire tore through their home on Peter Street in Blackpool. Lancashire Police and the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the blaze.
Chief Superintendent Mike Gladwin, West Divisional Commander for Lancashire Police, confirmed that the two deceased individuals were the parents of the injured children. Speaking at a press conference at the scene, he said, “We understand they lived in the property and are the parents of the injured children. We have evacuated a small number of properties while we conduct our investigations.”
Emergency services were called to Peter Street at 2:39 AM following reports of a fire with people trapped inside. The response included officers from Lancashire Police and the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
“Tragically, a woman in her 20s was found deceased at the scene. A man in his 20s was later pronounced deceased at Blackpool Victoria Hospital,” the police statement said. “Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this devastating time. Two children have been taken to hospital for treatment. One of them is in a very poorly condition.”
Work is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire, with authorities keeping an open mind at this stage. No arrests have been made.
Chief Superintendent Gladwin addressed the community, saying, “This incident has resulted in two people losing their lives and my thoughts are with their loved ones at this extremely distressing time. I know this tragic news will be met with great sadness in the local community and people will want instant answers. However, there are grieving loved ones still trying to come to terms with this devastating news. With that in mind, I would ask for patience and that people avoid unhelpful and upsetting speculation.”
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or captured anything suspicious on CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage in the Peter Street area during the early hours of the morning to contact Lancashire Police. Information can be reported by calling 101 or through the Lancashire Police website, quoting log 97 of 17th July.
