Operation Romsey

04/09/2008

Detectives working on Operation Romsey are releasing photographs which display the immense effect of the fire which claimed a man's life almost a year ago. 

The fire, which happened in the early hours of September 17, 2007, was started at the bottom of the communal entranceway to the block of flats, and steadily grew, destroying the wooden stairs as it climbed upwards.

Fire experts from the Arson Task Force and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service agreed that the fire alarms and fire doors fitted throughout the building helped to ensure that the effects on other residents within the block weren't far worse.

Assistant Chief Officer Steve Hamm of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "This serious incident saw firefighters rescue 19 occupants after fire broke out in the communal stairway and tragically one person died. It acts as a stark reminder of the difficult and dangerous circumstances in which the Fire and Rescue Service operates, and the risks they face.

"The incident would undoubtedly have resulted in even greater loss of life had this building not had the correct fire safety measures in place, such as working fire alarms and fire doors. We urge occupants to make sure their building has an early means of smoke detection and warning, as well as considering the means of escape for everyone inside."

The photographs released today are from a series which were taken in the days immediately after the fire, and show the true extent of the damage caused. These photographs have been used as part of the ongoing police investigation into the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary O'Flaherty said, "We want people to see how truly shocking the effects of this fire were. The other residents in the building were immediately evacuated and many have still not been able to return to collect their personal belongings. These flats were the homes of many people, and I think it's devastating to see. Sadly one man died and another was seriously injured during this incident, and yet it could have been much worse.

"We are still working to identify the people responsible for this fire and I would repeat my appeal for anyone who thinks they may be able to assist the investigation to get in touch. We need to make sure people know that this kind of reckless action is very dangerous and will not be tolerated."

Anyone with any information on this incident should contact Fratton police station quoting Operation Romsey on 0845 045 45 45 or call Crimestoppers, the charity, anonymously on 0800 555 111.