Boy, 16, charged with murder after 'vulnerable' Robert Price dies in Dagenham house fire
A 76-year-old man died from burns and smoke inhalation. Two teenagers are now accused of being involved in an alleged firework attack to trigger the blaze.
Monday 5 August 2024 03:06, UK
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder in relation to the death of a "vulnerable" man whose home was allegedly attacked with fireworks.
Robert Price, 76, died from inhalation of fumes, and burns, following a fire at a house in Dagenham, in east London, at around 5.40pm on 27 July.
Firefighters forced entry to the house on Oval Road North and found Mr Price. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The teenager, who is also charged with arson with intent to endanger life, will appear in custody at Barkingside Youth Court on Monday.
He is the second youth charged in connection with Mr Price's death. Neither of them can be named for legal reasons.
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
A 17-year-old appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, also charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life.
The court heard he was alleged to have been part of a group that deliberately started a fire at Mr Price's home. He was described as a "vulnerable adult".
The 17-year-old defendant was not accused of throwing a firework himself during the alleged attack but the prosecution claimed he was part of the group.
Read more from Sky News:
Masked rioters break into hotel
Details of Jay Slater's funeral published
Weather warning on way for much of UK
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
The Met's Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, the senior investigating officer on the case, said: "I would like to reassure the community that while the investigation remains ongoing, police are not seeking to identify any further people in connection with the fatal fire on Oval Road North.
"I also ask that the privacy of Mr Price's family is respected."