Firefighters Smash Down Door to Rescue Kids Left Home Alone in Gosport Blaze
Fire crews from Gosport and Fareham rushed to a blazing semi-detached home in Bridgemary tonight after reports of trapped children inside.
Sledgehammers and Sirens: Dramatic Rescue in Turners Avenue
Three fire engines arrived at the scene on Turners Avenue shortly after 8.40pm. Firefighters smashed through a locked front door with sledgehammers to reach the property, where they found a small fire on the stairs.
Children Left Alone with 26 Dogs – Shocking Neighbour Account
Neighbours revealed that two young children, just six and nine years old, had been left alone inside the house along with 26 dogs and several puppies. One stunned resident said the kids’ mum was thought to be at work at the time.
Father Detained as Police Investigate
The children’s father returned home shortly after firefighters broke in. Police promptly detained the middle-aged man and took him to Fareham Police Station for questioning. A spokesman confirmed the fire service is cooperating fully with police.
Kids Safe but Shaken — Now in Neighbours’ Care
Thankfully, the children escaped injury. Paramedics checked them over at the scene before neighbours stepped in to care for them. Meanwhile, part of Turners Avenue remains blocked off while Scene of Crime and Arson Task Force officers comb the area.
RSPCA inspectors also spent the evening at the property, responding to concerns about the welfare of the numerous dogs.
A Hampshire Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: “Crews attended the incident promptly and are working alongside police to investigate.”
