Investigation launched into deaths at Langley Mill flats blaze

Derbyshire Constabulary confirmed a man, a woman and a baby girl died following the blaze at a block of flats on North Street, Langley Mill, after the fire was discovered about 4am, today, Sunday, June 21.

Fire crews from Heanor, Ilkeston, Eastwood and Ripley were called out to the incident with a high-rise ladder from Ascot Drive station, in Derby.

Neighbours have claimed there had been desperate attempts to rescue the casualties from the three-story building and unconfirmed reports have suggested a car fire may have spread to the property involved.

A police spokesman said: “Several neighbouring properties have been evacuated as the fire caused a gas leak. Police understand engineers are working to fix the leak.”

John Dunkley, a watch manager with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, has also tweeted: “Terrible night shift. Thoughts with all personnel from all emergency services involved at Langley Mill this morning.”

A fire service spokesman said two people from the property affected by the fire and a further three residents from adjacent flats had managed to escape the blaze.

A Derbyshire fire service spokesman said: “Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the family and friends of the deceased.”

Derbyshire police and Derbyshire fire service have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and arson has not been ruled out.

Anyone with information should call police on 101.