Hounslow fire: Sixth person confirmed dead in horror blaze

A sixth person who had been “unaccounted for” in a fatal house fire in west London has been confirmed dead by the Met Police.

The blaze tore through a family home in Channel Close, Hounslow, on Sunday night (November 12).

The Met Police and London Fire Brigade are investigating the cause of the horror blaze.

Although formal identification has not taken place, officers can confirm that the bodies found are those of adults and children.

Aroen Kishen and his wife Seema have been named locally as the occupants of the house.

The families of all those concerned have been informed of the development and are being supported by specialist officers.

Post-mortem examinations and formal identification will take place in due course.

A seventh man was taken to hospital with serious burns and is still receiving treatment; his condition is not thought life-threatening.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Garth Hall from the West Area Basic Command Unit said: “Firstly, I want to express my sincere condolences to all those affected by this terrible incident. The deaths of so many people, including children, is simply heart-breaking.

“We intend to complete a meticulous investigation into how this tragedy happened. For many days now the scene has been too unstable and dangerous to complete many of our inquiries. It was only after the walls were shored up, and the roof removed, that it became safe enough for search teams to enter the premises.

“We have now been able to sadly confirm the death of a sixth person. The investigation into the cause of the fire continues and I must express my thanks to the London Fire Brigade, their knowledge and experience has been crucial in helping us understand what may have happened that dreadful night.

“These deaths are still being treated as unexplained and we are liaising closely with the Coroner. We understand that family and communities will be looking for answers, but this will be a thorough investigation and we will not rush to any judgement, but follow where the evidence leads. Should there be any change in the nature of this inquiry, we will share that information immediately.

“Lastly, we are still appealing for witnesses, or anyone who recorded anything on their phones that night, to come forward. If you have anything that can assist this investigation please get in contact. Any bit of information, no matter how small, may help us understand what happened that night.”

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or contact via X (Twitter) @MetCC. Please quote Operation Hamalton. To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.