An investigation has been launched after a late-night blaze tore through a residential building in East London, with an electric bike believed to be the cause of eight People have been treated at the scene and taken to hospital by London Ambulance service.
The fire broke out at Bradbeer House on Cornwall Avenue, Bethnal Green, just before midnight on Wednesday, 9 April 2025. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 11.30pm, with firefighters, paramedics, and police responding rapidly.
Firefighter Injured During Rescue Operation
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) source confirmed that one of its firefighters was injured while tackling the flames and rescuing residents trapped inside the building. The firefighter was taken to hospital for treatment, and their condition is currently unknown.
Police officers are seen running toward flames pulling people from the block of 18 flats after they were beaten back by flames.
Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke billowing from the building, as crews worked through the night to evacuate residents and bring the blaze under control.
The fire, which is believed to have originated from an electric bike, spread quickly through part of the residential block, prompting a full-scale emergency response.
Fire Under Investigation
The London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident, with initial reports suggesting the e-bike may have been charging at the time of the fire.
A spokesperson at the scene for LFB said:
“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 while carrying out rescue operations and has been taken to hospital.”
Community Concerns Over E-Bike Fires
The incident has reignited concerns over the safety of electric bike batteries, particularly those that are poorly manufactured or charged using unofficial equipment. According to recent LFB data, e-bike and e-scooter fires are on the rise, with over 150 incidents reported in London in 2024 alone.
Local residents shared their shock on social media, with one user on X posting:
“Scary scenes in Cornwall Avenue last night. Hope the firefighter is okay. These e-bike fires are becoming way too common.”
Ongoing Support and Advice
As the investigation continues, residents have been urged to follow LFB safety guidance, which includes:
-
Never block fire exits with e-bikes or e-scooters.
-
Use the correct charger supplied with the device.
-
Charge batteries away from escape routes and while awake.
Authorities are also working to assess the damage to the building and support displaced residents. The London Fire Brigade is expected to issue a formal statement later today.
Anyone with information or footage of the fire is urged to contact the London Fire Brigade or local authorities.
