Barking Blaze That Tore Through Six Floors Started by Barbecue, Say Locals
A huge fire ripped through a Barking block of flats this afternoon, with witnesses claiming it started from a barbecue. The blaze tore through six floors of the building on De Pass Gardens, Barking Riverside, leaving dozens homeless.
Firefighters Battle Inferno
Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters rushed to the scene after the London Fire Brigade got the call at 3.31pm. Flames devoured flats from the ground floor up to the sixth, even spreading to nearby properties.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson confirmed crews from Barking, Dagenham, East Ham, and surrounding areas fought the fire for hours. “The block is still alight,” they said. Fire investigators have now taken over to find out what sparked the disaster.
Eyewitness: Barbecue Sparked The Flames
One resident, who wished to stay anonymous, told us a barbecue was being used just moments before the blaze broke out. While the official cause is still unconfirmed, fire experts are probing the idea.
No Injuries Reported, Police Assist Road Closures
The Metropolitan Police confirmed no injuries have been reported. Officers are helping with road closures around the area to keep everyone safe while firefighters continue their work.
Residents affected by the fire are now searching for emergency accommodation as the investigation continues.
