Man, 34, arrested on suspicion of murder after west London house fire leaves one woman dead and another critical

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Officers were called to reports of a fire at a property on Berkeley Avenue, Hounslow, at about 1.14am on Wednesday.

A 48-year-old woman died in hospital and another woman, 40, remains in a life-threatening condition, the Metropolitan Police said.

Six men and one woman who were taken to hospital have since been discharged with minor injuries, the force added.

The man was arrested by Kent Police on Sunday while he was travelling to France by train, and remains in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, as well as everyone who has been injured.

“Our investigation is continuing at pace and we have arrested one man in connection with the incident.

Read more: Murder investigation launched after human remains found after wildfire

Read more: Murder inquiry launched after woman dies and eight others injured in fire

“Detectives are continuing to build a full picture of the circumstances surrounding the incident and are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry.

“We continue to ask any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to please contact us as soon as possible.”

Images from the scene showed a light-coloured terraced house that was blackened on the outside, with window panes peeling and part of the upstairs eaves apparently melted.

The door appeared badly affected and the fire damage reaches the neighbouring house.

Anyone with information or footage that may assist the investigation is urged to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 359/19Aug, or reach out anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.