Chaos erupted in the early hours as a massive fire gutted Poundland on Penge High Street. At around 4.30am on October 9, around 100 firefighters stormed the scene to tackle the raging blaze, with police arriving soon after.
Residents Evacuated Amid Huge Fire
As a precaution, 40 local residents were evacuated to safety. Miraculously, no injuries have been reported despite the intense inferno.
Police and Fire Investigate Cause
The Metropolitan Police are teaming up with the London Fire Brigade to get to the bottom of the devastating fire. No arrests have been made yet, but inquiries are ongoing.
“At around 04:55hrs on Thursday, 9th October, police were called to reports of a fire in a shop on High Street, Penge,” a Met spokesperson said. “Officers attended alongside the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution and no injuries have been reported.”
“Anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling 101 or online, quoting CAD907/09OCT. Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
High Street Remains Closed After Blaze
The fire gutted a large part of Poundland’s ground floor, leaving a blackened, damaged shell. Authorities have closed High Street to all traffic as emergency crews complete their investigation.
