Blaze Breaks Out on Willesden High Road – Seven Hospitalised
Chaos erupted on Willesden High Road yesterday afternoon as a fire broke out at a shop with flats above. Around 60 firefighters and eight fire engines rushed to the scene after the blaze started at 1:08 PM.
Dramatic Rescue and Heavy Smoke
The fire engulfed part of the shop’s ground floor and the ceiling void between the ground and first floors. Two people were rescued from the roof using a short extension ladder. Five others escaped before emergency services arrived. All seven victims were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
Station Commander Chucks Abili praised the crew’s efforts: “Crews worked hard to access the voids and bring the fire under control. The fire was producing heavy smoke, so we advised local residents to keep their windows and doors closed.”
Fire Crews Battle Blaze Using Special Equipment
Firefighters from West Hampstead, Park Royal, North Kensington, Kentish Town, and Wembley stations teamed up to tackle the flames. A 32-metre turntable ladder was deployed as an observation platform to monitor the fire’s spread.
Willesden High Road Shut – Rush Hour Disrupted
The fire forced the closure of Willesden High Road between Bertie Road and Hawthorn Road, causing major disruption during the afternoon rush hour. Commander Abili urged the public to avoid the area while firefighters worked to control the blaze, which was brought under control by 3:21 PM.
Investigation Into Cause Underway
The fire’s cause remains unknown as investigations continue. Local residents and businesses have been urged to stay alert as police and fire services probe the incident.
