East London Blaze: Electric Bike Sparks Midnight Fire in Bethnal Green Flats
A major emergency erupted in East London late Wednesday night as a fierce fire ripped through Bethnal Green’s Bradbeer House. An electric bike is believed to have sparked the devastating blaze that broke out just before midnight on Cornwall Avenue.
Heroic Rescue: Police and Firefighters Rush Into Flames
Emergency services were called around 11.30pm, with London Fire Brigade, Metropolitan Police, and London Ambulance Service arriving at the scene. Dramatic footage shows officers running headfirst into the burning building to rescue trapped residents, pulling them to safety before retreating from the intense flames.
“We were called to a fire at a residential property in Bradbeer House, Cornwall Avenue, shortly before midnight on 9 April. An electric bike is believed to be involved, though a full investigation is underway. One firefighter was injured during rescue operations and has been taken to hospital,” confirmed a Met Police source.
Eight Hospitalised After Inferno
Seven civilians and one firefighter were rushed to hospital with injuries. The conditions of those affected remain undisclosed as emergency crews battled the blaze deep into the early hours. In total, eighteen flats were damaged, forcing a full evacuation of residents under hazardous conditions.
E-Bike Fire Risks Under Spotlight Amid Surge in Incidents
Investigators believe the blaze started when an electric bike caught fire, potentially while charging. This sparks fresh concerns over lithium-ion battery safety in residential buildings. London Fire Brigade reports a sharp rise in e-bike and e-scooter fires — with over 150 related incidents recorded across the capital in 2024 alone.
Residents and safety campaigners are demanding tougher safety regulations and better public education on electric bike charging risks.
On social media, one user commented: “Scary scenes in Cornwall Avenue last night. Hope the firefighter is okay. These e-bike fires are becoming way too common.”
Safety Tips for E-Bike Owners
- Always use the charger provided with your electric bike.
- Never block fire exits or escape routes with your bike or scooter.
- Avoid charging batteries overnight or when unattended.
Investigation Continues as Area Remains Cordoned Off
A joint investigation by London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police is ongoing. The area remains sealed off with safety inspections and cleanup underway. Authorities confirmed displaced families are receiving temporary accommodation and emergency support.
If you have any information, images, or footage of the fire, please contact the London Fire Brigade or call the Met Police on 101 quoting incident reference 0302422/09APR25.
We will update this story as more details emerge.
