Cheam fire: Person dies in 'garden office' blaze - search for cause

An investigation has been launched after a person died in a fire in south London.

A single-story garden office was destroyed by the fire in North Cheam, Sutton on Saturday (May 4).

Firefighters discovered a body inside after emergency services were called shortly before 9am.

Met Police detectives are investigating the cause of the fire with London Fire Brigade, although it is not currently believed to be suspicious.

A Met spokesperson said: “Officers believe they know this person’s identity and are in contact with family members.

“The cause of the fire is under investigation by officers and LFB colleagues. At this early stage, the fire is not believed to be suspicious, however enquiries continue.”

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London Fire Brigade said in a statement: “Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters responded to a fire in a garden on Church Hill Road.

“Whilst carrying out firefighting operations crews discovered a person, who was sadly declared dead at the scene.”

The brigade received the first of 16 calls at 8.55am, and the fire was under control by 10.18am. Firefighters from Sutton, Mitcham, New Malden and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.