Fifteen people flee Walthamstow homes after roof collapses into first floor of terraced house

Rafi Mauro-Benady

18 April 2024 at 1:24 pm·1-min read

A picture of firefighters by two fire engines — The London Fire Brigade said eight people were evacuated from nearby homes as well as seven people from the affected property (stock photo) -Credit:Rasid Necati Aslim/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Fifteen people were forced to flee their homes after a roof collapsed in East London. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) raced to Palmerston Road, Walthamstow, at around 1.51pm on Thursday (April 18).

Seven people managed to escape before firefighters arrived, while eight were evacuated from nearby homes as a safety measure. Waltham Forest Council warned locals of delays.

Taking to X a spokesperson wrote: "Palmerston Road E17 is closed between Mission Grove & Melbourne Road while police respond to an incident. Please avoid the area if possible!"

An LFB spokesperson said: "Firefighters were called to a partial roof collapse on Palmerston Road in Walthamstow. The roof of a terraced house collapsed onto the first floor.

"Seven people left the building before the brigade arrived. A further eight people were evacuated from neighbouring properties as a precaution and a safety cordon was put in place. There were no reports of any injuries. The brigade was called at 1.51pm and the incident was over for firefighters by 3.57pm.

"One fire engine and a fire rescue unit from Walthamstow and East Ham fire stations attended the scene." The Met Police was contacted for comment. London Ambulance Service did not attend.

Got a story? Please get in touch at rafi.benady@reachplc.com

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