A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman died and eight people were taken to hospital following a house fire in west London.
Emergency services were called to reports of a fire at a property in Berkeley Avenue, Hounslow, at about 1.14am on Wednesday.
A 48-year-old woman was taken to hospital, where she later died.
Another woman, aged 40, remains in a life-threatening condition, the Metropolitan Police said.
Six men and one woman who were also taken to hospital have since been discharged after suffering minor injuries.
The suspect was arrested by Kent Police today while travelling by train towards France.
He remains in custody as detectives continue their investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the inquiry, said officers were working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire.
“Our thoughts remain first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, as well as everyone who has been injured,” he said.
“Our investigation is continuing at pace and we have arrested one man in connection with the incident.”
He added that detectives were pursuing a number of lines of inquiry and urged anyone with information to come forward.
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Images from the scene showed a light-coloured terraced property that had been severely damaged by the fire.
The exterior was blackened, while window panes appeared to be peeling and sections of the upstairs eaves appeared to have melted.
The front door was also badly damaged, while signs of fire damage appeared to have spread to the neighbouring property.
Police have not disclosed further details about the circumstances surrounding the death or the suspected motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Detectives are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or may have information, including relevant video footage, to contact police.
The Metropolitan Police said information can be provided by calling 101 and quoting CAD 359/19Aug.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through its website.
DCI John said: “We continue to ask any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to please contact us as soon as possible.”
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