Man dies at squatted disused Hackney hostel

A man died in in the early hours of this morning (Saturday) after flames ripped through a former Salvation Army hostel in Lower Clapton Road which it’s believed was being used as a squat.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used ladders to rescue a man and a woman from the first floor of the three storey building after the blaze broke out at 3.58 am Both were taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.

Two other men fled to safety before the Brigade arrived, one of whom was taken to hospital after suffering injuries trying escape.

Eight fire engines and around 40 firefighters battled for nearly four hours to bring the blaze under control.

Parts of the ground, first and second floors were badly damaged by the blaze, as well as part of the roof.

The body of the man who died was discovered inside the building, He has not been named.

The cause of the blaze is under investigation by the Brigades fire investigation team and officers from the Met Police.

Detectives at Hackney are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information on the fire to call police on 101, or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.