TWO BODIES have been recovered from Rowe Court “after a complex recovery process” and taken to hospital, it has been announced.
Work had been ongoing to make the site safe after a major fire broke out at the property on Wednesday, December 15, in order for the bodies of two people who died to be recovered.
Post mortem examinations are expected to take place this week, as well as formal identification. The families are being supported through this process.
Superintendent Steve Raffield, local area policing commander for Reading, said he hopes the recovery of those who were inside is of some comfort to their families.
“I know that today has been a very difficult and emotional day for a lot of people connected to this incident, especially for the families of the deceased,” he said.
“I’d also like to thank all those living nearby for their continued support and patience.”
The Thames Valley Police major crime unit is continuing its investigation into the incident and one man has been charged in connection with it.
The site remains a crime scene and work to safely dismantle the building is continuing. Police officers and contractors will remain at the site over the coming weeks.
Jim Powell, area manager at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, also extend his thoughts to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
“A full fire investigation to determine the cause of the fire is now under way and we will continue to work with partners to resolve this incident as swiftly and as safely as possible,” he said.
Reading Borough Council leader, Cllr Jason Brock, said that the impact for those affected by the fire is as real today as it was on the day.
“The thoughts of everybody in Reading are firmly with the families of those people whose bodies were recovered by our emergency service colleagues earlier today,” he said.
“We once again thank Reading’s emergency services for the dignified recovery in what must have been very distressing circumstances.
“I know they will be on site for some considerable time yet as teams work to dismantle what is left of Rowe Court.
“We also thank the local community again for their patience and understanding.”
The dedicated webpage for people wishing to make a financial donation to support residents displaced by the fire remains open.
For more information, visit: reading.gov.uk/rowecourt
