Child dies after chemical leak in flats sparking evacuation in Newham

One child has died after ‘a hazardous materials incident’ broke out in a flat in east London.

Firefighters rushed to the family home on Barking Road, Upton Park, after two adults and two children went to hospital complaining about a smell of chemicals.

Tragically, one of the children later died whilst receiving treatment. 

Around 12 neighbors were evacuated as a precaution as firefighters rushed into the home.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: ‘Specially trained firefighters carried out a systematic sweep of the affected property, working to detect any hazardous materials present and ventilate the scene.

‘The first call reporting the incident was received at 1.20pm, and firefighters from Poplar, Millwall, Euston and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

‘The incident was over for crews by 4.20pm.’

The Metropolitan Police are investigating the source of the leak.