Double fatal fire 'caused by petrol vapours'

One casualty was declared dead at the scene, the other died three weeks later

A fire which led to the deaths of two people in Nottinghamshire was likely started by petrol vapour, an investigation has found.

Emergency services received a call from a neighbour who saw smoke coming from a house in Bridle Road, Burton Joyce, on 6 July 2024.

Pamela Barron, 73, was pronounced dead at the scene and brother-in-law Derek Gould, 83, was taken to hospital by a air ambulance but died 21 days later.

A can of petrol was found in the kitchen and the fire service said its vapour had likely been ignited.

Following the conclusion of an inquest into their deaths, fire service station manager and fire investigator Jim Dykes said: "During our investigation we located a petrol can within the kitchen of the property.

"Due to the severity of the fire and the nature of this incident, we were unable to confirm the ignition source; however, it was determined to be a caused as a result of a naked flame being applied to ignitable liquid vapour.

"Although it isn't a common occurrence to use petrol within a home as a source of ignition for heat or cooking, we are still aware this is standard practice for some people, and it is our job to highlight the significant risks that come with doing so."

The fire service also reminded householders it offered a free online home safety check which could by followed by an in-person visit.