Ilford Restaurant Blaze Leaves Several Injured, Police Launch Arson Investigation

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A fire tore through a restaurant in Ilford, east London, on Friday night, leaving multiple people injured and prompting a full-scale investigation by the Metropolitan Police. The blaze broke out around 9 p.m. at a venue along Woodford Avenue in Gants Hill, forcing emergency crews to battle intense flames while rescuing trapped occupants. Firefighters from the London Fire Brigade, alongside paramedics and police officers, were able to bring the fire under control by 10:30 p.m., but not before significant damage and injuries were reported.

Authorities confirmed that five individuals were rescued from the premises, while nine others managed to escape before emergency services arrived. Three of the injured remain in life-threatening condition, suffering from severe burns and smoke inhalation. They were treated on-site before being rushed to local hospitals. Witnesses described chaotic and distressing scenes, with residents hearing screams and seeing people fleeing the restaurant as the fire spread. One neighbour, Edward Thawe, said he ran outside with his child after hearing commotion and witnessed what he called “a horrible sight,” describing a man with severe burns who looked “in unimaginable pain.”

A heavy police presence remains in the area as investigators work to establish the cause of the blaze. Forensic teams have cordoned off the site and are examining evidence, including what appeared to be bloodied footprints around the building. Detectives believe that the incident may have been deliberate, though no arrests have been announced. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime North unit said officers are treating the situation with urgency, noting the need to provide reassurance to the community while uncovering the facts. He added that specialist detectives are working tirelessly to understand what led to the fire.

The impact of the incident has rippled through the local community, with many residents shaken by the scale of the emergency. Local businesses have expressed concern over safety, and many gathered at the scene to watch the emergency response. Health Secretary and local Member of Parliament Wes Streeting praised the quick action of fire crews and medical responders, urging residents to avoid the area while investigations continue. He confirmed that further updates will be provided through official local channels.

Police are appealing for witnesses, asking anyone with information or video footage from the surrounding area to come forward. The public is encouraged to call the Metropolitan Police’s non-emergency line or share tips anonymously through Crimestoppers. Authorities hope community cooperation will help piece together a timeline of events and determine whether the fire was accidental or a criminal act.

The incident has raised serious questions about safety and security in the area and has left a sense of unease among locals. As investigators continue their work, the focus remains on supporting the injured, restoring calm to the community, and identifying the cause of this devastating blaze.