Two sisters in critical condition after fire above shop

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following an arson at an address in Putney. In particular they would like to contact a cabbie who was passing by and raised the alarm by sounding his horn

They were called at approximately 1:15am on Wednesday 26th October following reports by London Fire Brigade of a serious fire at a residential flat above a comic-book shop in Lower Richmond Rd.

Two women residents – sisters aged 45 years and 51 years - were trapped inside the flat. They jumped from a window to escape, and were taken to a London hospital. Both are in a critical condition, suffering severe burns.

Inquiries are underway by Wandsworth CID and police are holding a 31 year old man in connection with the incident. DI Nicola Church said: “We are specifically appealing for a Hackney Carriage driver who was in Lower Richmond Road around that time, who may have witnessed the incident taking place and who raised the alarm by sounding his horn."

Police would also like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the vicinity at the time of the fire. Anyone who can assist should call Wandsworth CID on 020-8247 8929 or 8433; if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

November 28, 2005