The family of four went to hospital, and the baby later died
A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a one-year-old girl died after “hazardous chemicals” were reported at a flat in east London. Fire crews were called to a property in Barking Road, Upton Park, in Newham, on Tuesday afternoon after two adults, the one-year-old and a six-year-old attended hospital complaining about a smell of chemicals in a flat.
The infant girl later died in hospital. Police said it is believed she came into contact with chemicals. On Wednesday, officers confirmed a 41-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, who are not known to the victim, had been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and were being held in custody.
Around 12 people were evacuated from surrounding properties as a precaution as crews responded, London Fire Brigade said. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said the girl’s next of kin are being supported by specialist officers as its investigation continues.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Sadly, a child has died following a hazardous materials incident in Newham. Crews were mobilised to a property on Barking Road, Upton Park, after two adults and two children attended hospital complaining about a smell of chemicals in a flat. Sadly, one of the children later died in hospital whilst receiving treatment.
The first call reporting the incident was received at 1.18pm, and firefighters from Poplar, Millwall, Euston and surrounding fire stations attended the scene. The incident was over for crews by 4.23pm. The incident is under investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service, supported by the Brigade.”
A Newham council spokesperson said: “First of all, our thoughts are with the family of the young child who has so tragically lost their life in this terrible incident. Details about the exact nature of the incident are not yet clear and the Metropolitan Police will remain on the scene as the investigation progresses.
“As a council we have taken speedy measures to ensure those residents who were evacuated are being cared for in a warm, safe environment.”
It is understood the incident was not terror-related.
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