One dead as firefighters attend 'explosion' in Cheam where 'fireball' prompts road closures

A person has died after an 'explosion' in Cheam this morning (Saturday, May 4). A garden shed reportedly turned into a fireball that threatened to spread, reports UKNIP.

The fire occurred at a house on Church Hill Road North in Cheam, Sutton.

The London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, and Metropolitan Police were all at the scene at around 10am. Eyewitnesses reportedly heard a loud boom before the shed was engulfed in flames.

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A large number of cordons have been established to ensure public safety. Police offers are redirecting traffic, with traffic being reported in the area.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson told MyLondon: "Firefighters responded to a fire on Church Hill Road North Cheam.

"The Brigade received the first of 16 calls reporting the fire at 8.55am, and the incident was under control by 10.18am. Firefighters from Sutton, Mitcham, New Malden and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

"Traffic in the local area is likely to be impacted as crews remain on scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation."

The Metropolitan police confirmed one person sadly died. They told MyLondon: "Emergency services were called shortly before 9am on Saturday, May 4, to an outbuilding on fire at residential premises in Church Hill Road, North Cheam.

"Officers attended along with colleagues from LFB and LAS. Sadly, a body was found within the outbuilding. Officers believe they know this person’s identity and are in contact with family members.

"The cause of the fire is under investigation by officers and LFB colleagues. At this early stage, the fire is not believed to be suspicious, however enquiries continue."

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