Tragedy as two children die and five fighting for their lives after deadly East Ham house fire today

She continued: “This is a very big loss for the local community and it’s very sad news among the friends.” Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to the blaze just before 8.30am on Saturday, the LFB said. Half of the first floor and half of the ground floor of a terraced house were damaged by the fire, which was under control by 9.10am.

A fire engine and a police forensics van were parked at the scene on Sunday as investigations continued. Two windows of the house and the glass in the front door were smashed

d and investigation teams in white forensics suits entered the building and the neighbouring property.

Members of the community embraced and cried as they gathered on the street outside where flowers were left in tribute. Notes left with the flowers included one that read “so sorry for your terrible loss”. The London Ambulance Service sent ambulance crews, advanced paramedics, members of its Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and an air ambulance to the scene.

LFB assistant commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said: “This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.” He continued: “Sadly, one child was pronounced dead at the scene yesterday morning, and overnight a second child died in hospital.

“Two other children and two adults were also taken to hospital, where the children and one adult remain in a serious condition.” Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Burks, one of the officers responsible for policing in Newham, said: “I appreciate that local people will be shocked and saddened by this tragic event.

“We share those sentiments and will do all we can, alongside LFB, the local authority and other partners, to provide the family and local community with support and answers to their questions about this heart-breaking incident.”

Police added that inquiries were ongoing to identify and inform other family members. Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz said on X, formerly Twitter, that she was “heartbroken” at the incident and that those affected were in her prayers. She added: “It is just an unimaginable loss and my heart goes out to the parents.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the fire service and the Metropolitan Police and, at this stage, there is no evidence to indicate suspicious circumstances, police said.