British Broadcasting Corporation
Lakanal House in Camberwell on fire (pic: Christian Landles)
Three children died after a fire swept through the 12-storey Lakanal House tower block in Camberwell, south-east London. Eyewitness Sarah Gresty said: "It was shocking to see the quantities of smoke and flames."
Fire-damaged Lakanal House in Camberwell
Firefighters say they believe the blaze started on the ninth floor, and the people who died were all on the 11th floor.
Fire-damaged Lakanal House in Camberwell
About 30 people were rescued from the tower. Sixteen people were taken to hospital, where two of the children were pronounced dead.
Firefighters search burned out flats in Lakanal House, Camberwell
After containing the blaze, fire crews equipped with extended duration breathing apparatus began a detailed search of the building.
Emergency crews at the Lakanal House fire in Camberwell
In total, about 100 firefighters and 18 fire engines tackled the blaze, which began at about 1620 BST on Friday. Sixteen ambulance crews also attended to deal with the casualties (Pic: Julia Corp).
Emergency crews at the Lakanal House fire in Camberwell
Deputy assistant commissioner of the London Fire Brigade Tom Chidley told BBC News: "The initial crews were met by a serious fire which quickly developed." (pic: Julia Corp)
Emergency crews at the Lakanal House fire in Camberwell
The London Fire Brigade will now begin an investigation to try to determine the cause of the blaze.
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