Two arrested after hazardous chemical leak kills girl, 1, in east London flat

Two people have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a one-year-old girl died after coming into contact with dangerous chemicals.

A dozen locals were evacuated after a family complained about smelling toxic fumes at their home in Upton Park, east London on Tuesday.

Firefighters went to the flats in Barking Road after two adults, the toddler and a six-year-old showed symptoms of coming into contact with the dangerous toxins.

The young girl died as she received treatment.

On Wednesday, officers confirmed a 41-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, who are not known to the victim, had been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and were being held in custody.

Around 12 people were evacuated from surrounding properties as a precaution as crews responded, London Fire Brigade said.

Specially trained firefighters carried out a systematic sweep of the affected property, working to detect any hazardous materials present and ventilate the scene.

A spokesperson for the Met Police said the girl’s next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.

A council spokesperson expressed their condolences to the family of the toddler.

‘Details about the exact nature of the incident are not yet clear and the Met Police will remain on the scene as the investigation progresses,’ they said.

‘As a council we have taken speedy measures to ensure those residents who were evacuated are being cared for in a warm, safe environment.’