Fatal 10-Pump Fire in Lewisham Prompts Major Emergency Response and Investigation
A major emergency response is underway in South East London following a fatal fire at a block of maisonettes on Lewisham Road, Ladywell, during the early hours of Wednesday morning.
The %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_0%% Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were called to tackle the intense blaze, which broke out just before midnight.
The %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%% engulfed part of a five-room maisonette split across the ground and first floors. Control Officers received the first of 14 emergency calls at 11:55pm, dispatching crews from %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%%, Lewisham, Lee %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%% and surrounding stations. The incident was declared under control at 2:02am — more than two hours after it began.
Confirmed Fatalities and Ongoing Investigation
Tragically, lives have been %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%% in the incident. The exact number of fatalities has not yet been confirmed, and formal identification of the deceased is pending.
A crime scene remains in place around the property, and Lewisham Road is closed between Penrose Way and Lewisham Hill as investigations continue.
A joint probe between the LFB's specialist fire investigators and Metropolitan Police is now underway to determine the cause. The fire has been classified as a Level Two hazardous incident, with forensic officers expected to remain at the site throughout the day and possibly into the night.
Local Impact
Nearby residents have been evacuated as a safety precaution, with emergency %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%% support being coordinated by Lewisham Council. London Ambulance Service units were also in attendance during the overnight response.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area, and those affected are encouraged to seek support through local emergency services or housing teams.
More information will be released as soon as official updates are made available.
