A second person has been arrested on suspicion of murder following a suspected arson attack that claimed the life of a 49-year-old man in south London.
The Metropolitan Police responded to a distress call from the London Fire Brigade regarding a multi-occupancy house on Glenister Park Road, Streatham, shortly after 7pm on Sunday. Tragically, the lifeless body of a man was discovered inside the premises.
Detectives, who suspect foul play in the form of deliberate arson, have apprehended a 34-year-old woman on suspicion of murder and arson with intent to endanger life. Subsequently, a 47-year-old man was arrested last night on suspicion of murder. Both individuals are currently in police custody.
The scene of the incident has been inundated with officers and forensic teams, as investigators meticulously comb through evidence to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
Neighbours recount scenes of chaos and panic as flames engulfed the property. Uzair Arshad, a resident in the vicinity, described witnessing the blaze and the swift response of emergency services. Others have voiced concerns about the safety and security of the neighbourhood, particularly in light of the suspected arson.
Police have launched a murder investigation and are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, leading the inquiry, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in unravelling the events leading up to the fatal fire. She assured residents that additional patrols would be deployed to provide reassurance in the area.
As the investigation progresses, authorities urge anyone with information to contact the police or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.
The motive behind the suspected arson remains unclear, and a post-mortem examination of the victim has yet to be conducted.
