Tragedy as schoolboy, 8, dies in horror house fire – with three others rushed to hospital

AN eight-year-old schoolboy has died after a fire broke out inside a house.

Three people have been rushed to hospital after a blaze ripped through a property in Birkenhead, Merseyside.

Firefighters were called to the Beechwood Estate at around 1.48am on August 4.

When the emergency services arrived, three people were outside the property having leapt from the first floor windows.

North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) and Merseyside Police also attended.

An eight-year-old boy was rescued from inside by firefighters.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics and fire crews, he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Three people are being treated in hospital but their injuries are not considered to be life-threatening.

An investigation carried out between Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Merseyside Police revealed the fire was accidental.

Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan who attended the incident said: “This has been a very tragic incident, with an incredibly sad outcome despite the best efforts of my crews.

“Our thoughts are very much with the family, friends and loved ones of the young boy at this time.

“We also know the impact that an incident like this will have on the local community and share our heartfelt condolences.

“I would like to commend the efforts of my fire control team and fire crews who acted so quickly to rescue the young boy and North West Ambulance Service colleagues who made every effort to provide emergency resuscitation.”

As part of a reassurance campaign, firefighters and MFRS prevention staff will visit the area in the coming days to provide fire safety advice and carry out free home fire safety checks.