EMERGENCY services remained at a Reading block of flats yesterday, following a fire.
In the early hours of Wednesday morning, a four-storey block of low-rise flats in Rowe Court burned in what is suspected as an arson attack.
Specialist teams spent yesterday further assessing structural damage to the brick and timber building.
This included the Aerial Ladder Platform and Incident Command Unit are still in attendance, who worked to extinguish any hot spots from the fire.
A spokesperson for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) said: “Following an extensive search on Wednesday, during which all rescue opportunities were exhausted and confirmed that sadly, if there was anyone else in the building, we do not expect there to be any further survivors.”
Police confirmed that one person has tragically died in the fire, and two people have been confirmed as missing.
Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained police officers.
“From the assessment on scene, gaining safe access could take quite some time due to the deterioration in the structure of the building from the fire,” the RBFRS spokesperson added. “Based on this, we expect to remain in attendance over the coming days.”
“This is an incredibly challenging time and we’d like to reassure those affected by this incident, the families of those impacted and the wider community that we are working incredibly hard, alongside colleagues from the Police.”
They said that a Fire Investigation will launch once the building is confirmed as safe to enter.
“We’d like to thank our residents for their continued co-operation, patience and support and further updates will be provided,” they said.
Police confirmed that a 31-year-old man remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder and arson.
Yesterday, a warrant for further detention was been obtained, giving officers longer to question the man.
A helpline is being set up by Reading Borough Council, and the number will be released as soon as possible.
