Thornton Heath fire: Four people rescued and 40 properties evacuated from ‘explosion’ at collapsed house

Four people have been rescued from a collapsed house in Thornton Heath after a “fire and explosion”.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters rushed to Galpin’s Road in Thornton Heath, Croydon, south London, after reports of a fire and explosion.

Three people have been taken to hospital with what are thought to be life-threatening injuries, and a child has been killed, the London Ambulance Service (LAS) said.

A terraced house has collapsed following an explosion and neighbouring properties have also been damaged.

Photos of the street show a pile of rubble where a house previously stood in a row of other properties, while firefighters surround the area.

Around 40 properties have been evacuated and a 50-metre cordon has been put in place by crews.

The cause of the fire and explosion is not known at this time, the LFB said.

A fire service spokesperson said: “Four people have been rescued.

“The brigade was called at 7.08am. Fire crews from Norbury, Mitcham, West Norwood, Woodside and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.”

They added: “The brigade’s 999 control officers have taken 14 calls to the incident.

“The cause of the fire and explosion is not known at this time.”

People have been asked to avoid the area while emergency services are at the scene.

Firefighters are now carrying out systematic searches and working to make the scene safe following the incident.

And Merton Police said: “We hope everyone is okay.

“Our officers are supporting the excellent London Fire Brigade in their work where possible.”