House fire in Bedale Drive – no criminal act committed

A 14-year-old girl arrested following a fatal house fire at a property in Bedale Drive, Leicester has been released with no further action being taken after an investigation has concluded that no criminal act has been committed.

Police were contacted by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) at 4.08am on Tuesday 10 September who were in attendance at the property. 

Sadly, one occupant from the address was found deceased inside the property. Formal identification procedures remain ongoing, and officers continue to provide full support to the family. 

Others within the address at the time of the incident received hospital treatment as a precaution and have since been discharged. 

Following extensive and thorough enquires carried out with LFRS and scientific experts, the investigation has concluded that no criminal act has been committed. A file will now be prepared for HM Coroner.

Following initial enquiries at the scene, a 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of arson in order to allow a prompt and effective investigation. She was later released on bail but has now been released with no further action being taken.   

Detective Inspector Michael Chandler said: “This investigation has been complex, tragic and completely heartbreaking. Our thoughts remain with the family and all those who are going through the most difficult and unimaginable time. The family has asked for privacy at this time and we ask that this is please respected. 

“We have carried out extensive and thorough enquiries with the fire service and scientific experts over the past few weeks in order to establish the circumstances of the fire and to find answers for the family as quickly as we could. Following these enquiries, the investigation has concluded that no criminal act has been committed. A file will now be prepared for HM Coroner.

“A 14-year-old girl, who was arrested at the scene in order to allow us to carry out a prompt and effective investigation, has now been released with no further action. Support will remain in place for the girl going forward.

“I want to thank everyone, including members of the local community, who have worked with us and supported us during these past few weeks in such sad and shocking circumstances. Please do continue to speak with us in relation to any concerns you have. Thank you.” 

Simon Holden, Area Manager Response, said, “This is a terribly sad incident, and the thoughts of all of us at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time. Our Community Safety team has been in the local community over the last few weeks, offering support and advice where needed. Further information and advice about home fire safety can be found here At Home | Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (leics-fire.gov.uk)”