Locals pay tribute to "lovely family" after fatal house fire in Exeter
A four-year-old girl and two adults in their 20s died after the blaze in the St David's area of the city
Last updated 22nd Feb 2021
Police say there is nothing to indicate third-party involvement after a fatal house fire in Exeter.
A four-year-old girl and a man and woman in their 20s died after the blaze in the St David's area of the city.
Three other children were injured and taken to Bristol Children's Hospital after it broke out on Clayton Road, early on Sunday morning.
Investigators have said it could take days to work out what caused the fire.
Neighbours have been reacting to the tragic news and paying tribute, describing the victims as a "lovely family".
Read more: 4-year-old girl and two adults have died after house fire in Exeter
Posting on Twitter, Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez, has also paid tribute.
"Really heartbreaking. Not something any Commander wants to have to head up.
"Seriously sad and thanks to all involved who helped and will be helping at the scene.
She added: "I’ll be praying for the children in hospital tonight".
Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service have described the incident as "tragic" and say their "heartfelt thoughts" are with the family and everyone involved.
Chief Superintendent Daniel Evans said: "It has now been confirmed that two adults, a 28-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man, plus a 4-year-old girl have all died following this house fire.
"Next of kin have been informed and we will be supporting those affected with specialist officers.
"Two boys aged 4 and 9, and a 7-year-old girl who were also in the house at the time of the fire remain in hospital. All three are currently in a stable condition, and all will be transferred to Bristol Children’s Hospital later today (Sunday); all six within the property are related to each other.
"We are working closely with specialist scene investigators to help us understand how this tragic incident could have occurred, but currently there is nothing to indicate any third-party involvement in this matter and therefore we are not seeking anyone in connection to this fire at this time".
Chief Supt Evans added: "This is a deeply upsetting incident and one that will cause great distress to the community, particularly to those who knew the family.
"I don’t doubt that people will wish to leave a tribute and flowers at the scene. I ask that at this time the public give our officers space to undertake the vital investigative work at the scene, and we will update you all over the coming days in relation to a safe space where people can leave flowers or a tribute if they wish".
Chief Superintendent Daniel Evans