Man Arrested Over Deadly Blackpool E-Scooter Fire
Police have arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter after a fatal fire tore through a Blackpool property. He remains in custody as investigators continue their probe.
Tragedy on Hill Street
The blaze broke out just after midnight on July 6th on the top floor of a building on Hill Street. Several residents escaped before emergency services arrived, but a woman in her 40s sadly died despite treatment at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
A man in his 50s remains in serious but stable condition at Wythenshaw Hospital. Three others, aged 26, 13, and 16, were treated for minor injuries.
E-Scooter Battery to Blame?
Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service have launched a joint investigation. Early findings suggest the fire was likely sparked by a lithium-ion battery from an e-scooter.
Fires involving lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters and bikes are becoming more common, and they tend to start and spread rapidly,” said Mark Hutton, Head of Prevention and Protection at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
“Always charge batteries while awake, use the manufacturer’s charger, and keep devices away from escape routes. Most importantly, ensure you have working smoke alarms on every floor.”
Safety Warning and Appeal for Information
Detective Chief Inspector Lee Wilson of Blackpool Police urged the public to come forward with any info, stressing the investigation is ongoing:
“Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of the woman who lost her life. While we have made an arrest, the case is still at an early stage, and we encourage anyone with information to contact us.”
Anyone with details should call police on 101 quoting log 0059 from July 6, 2022.
For more advice on e-scooter fire safety, visit the National Fire Chiefs Council website.
