A major emergency response was launched in East London late on Wednesday night (9 April 2025) after a fire tore through a block of flats in Bethnal Green — with an electric bike believed to have sparked the inferno. Police officers were seen running toward the flames to help trapped residents, and seven civilians and one firefighter were rushed to hospital.
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The blaze broke out just before midnight at Bradbeer House on Cornwall Avenue, E2, engulfing the building in smoke and flames. Eighteen flats were affected, and a crime scene remains in place today as investigators work to determine the full circumstances.
Police and Firefighters in Daring Rescue
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 11.30pm, with London Fire Brigade (LFB), Metropolitan Police, and London Ambulance Service all responding. Dramatic scenes unfolded as police officers ran into the blazing building to rescue residents, pulling them out one by one before being beaten back by flames.
A source for the Met Police confirmed:
“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.”
Eight Taken to Hospital
In total, eight people were treated at the scene and taken to hospital, including a firefighter injured during the rescue operation. Their condition has not been disclosed.
Footage and photos from the scene show thick plumes of smoke pouring from the entrance to the building, which houses multiple families. Fire crews battled the flames into the early hours of Thursday morning, with a full evacuation of residents conducted under dangerous conditions.
E-Bike Sparked the Fireball, Say Investigators
Early reports suggest the fire started after an electric bike caught alight, potentially while charging. The blaze spread quickly throughout parts of the building, fuelling renewed fears over e-bike battery safety.
Rise in E-Bike Fires
The incident comes amid a surge in electric bike and scooter fires across London.
According to LFB statistics, over 150 e-bike and e-scooter-related fires were recorded in the capital during 2024 alone.
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Residents and safety campaigners have repeatedly called for stricter safety rules and better public education on the risks of charging lithium-ion battery-powered devices at home.
On X, one user shared:
“Scary scenes in Cornwall Avenue last night. Hope the firefighter is okay. These e-bike fires are becoming way too common.”
Safety Advice for E-Bike Owners
The London Fire Brigade urges all e-bike and e-scooter owners to follow key safety measures:
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Always use the charger provided with the bike.
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Never block fire exits or escape routes with electric bikes or scooters.
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Avoid charging batteries overnight or when unattended.
Investigation Underway
A full joint investigation by the London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police is now underway. The area remains cordoned off, and residents have been advised to stay away while safety inspections and cleanup efforts continue.
Officials have also confirmed that displaced families are being supported with temporary accommodation and emergency services.
Anyone with information, images, or footage of the fire is urged to contact the London Fire Brigade or call the Met Police on 101 quoting incident reference 0302422/09APR25.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
