As part of our investigation, Officers arrested a man today (Thursday, July 21st) on suspicion of manslaughter. He is still being held at this time.
At 12.49 a.m. on July 6th, we were dispatched to Hill Street in the resort due to reports of a fire on the top floor of a property.
Several people were able to flee the property before emergency services arrived.
A woman in her 40s was treated at the scene, but she was sadly pronounced dead at Blackpool Victoria Hospital despite the best efforts of the emergency services. At this time, our thoughts are with her family.
A man in his fifties was taken to Wythenshaw Hospital and is still in serious but stable condition.
Three other people, aged 26, 13, and 16, were also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
A joint police-fire investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire, and investigators now believe the most likely cause was a battery on an e-scooter.
We advise people who own an e-scooter to follow some basic safety precautions.
My thoughts first and foremost remain with the loved ones of the woman who very sadly lost her life in this fire,” said Det Chief Insp Lee Wilson of Blackpool Police. While we have made an arrest, our investigations are still in their early stages and may take some time. We are continuing to work closely with our colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and I would like to encourage anyone with information to contact us.
First and foremost, our thoughts are with the families and friends of everyone who has been affected by this tragic incident,” said Area Manager Mark Hutton, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention and Protection.
“Fires involving lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters and bikes are becoming more common, and they tend to start and spread rapidly.” There are some simple steps that can be taken, as with all rechargeable electrical goods, to help reduce the risk of fire. E-bikes and e-scooters should only be purchased from reputable retailers and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions at all times. Always charge batteries while you are awake, using the charger that came with the product, and in a location that is far from your escape routes. As always, it is critical to have working smoke alarms, ideally one per floor.”
More information on e-bikes and e-scooters fire safety can be found here (nationalfirechiefs.org.uk)
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 101 and reference log 0059 from July 6, 2022.
