Child dies in London flat linked to 'hazardous materials'

Several people were evacuated from their homes after a child died following a "hazardous materials incident" in east London.

The London Fire Brigade said they were called to a flat in Barking Road, Upton Park, after two adults and two children went to hospital complaining about the smell of chemicals in the flat.

One of the children later died in hospital.

12 people were evacuated from neighbouring homes as a precaution.

"Sadly, a child has died following a hazardous materials incident in Newham," the London Fire Brigade said in a statement.

"Crews were mobilised to a property on Barking Road, Upton Park, after two adults and two children attended hospital complaining about a smell of chemicals in a flat.

"Sadly, one of the children later died in hospital whilst receiving treatment.

"Around 12 people were evacuated from surrounding properties as a precaution whilst crews responded.

"Specially trained firefighters carried out a systematic sweep of the affected property, working to detect any hazardous materials present and ventilate the scene.

"The first call reporting the incident was received at 1318, and firefighters from Poplar, Millwall, Euston and surrounding fire stations attended the scene. The incident was over for crews by 1623.

"The incident is under investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service, supported by the Brigade."