A man in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire tore through a home in Hackney.
Four people were taken to hospital after the ground floor and first floor of the three-storey house on Newick Road were destroyed by the blaze on Wednesday.
The Metropolitan Police said three neighbours and a passer-by were injured in the fire that the force believe was started deliberately.Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled flames at the terraced home after first being called at 12.42pm.
Footage of the fire shows huge flames bursting through the front of the building and pouring out of smashed windows.
House fire in Hackney today https://t.co/YOQswKH4fR pic.twitter.com/fkOLa1Yzn2
— UB1UB2 West London (Southall) (@UB1UB2) March 20, 2024
A man was arrested shortly afterwards near the scene on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
He is being treated at hospital for minor injuries sustained in the fire.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney, said: “On his arrest the man made a number of threatening comments, someof which were allegedly antisemitic.
“We take instances of antisemitism extremely seriously and for this reason we’re investigating the incident as a potential hate crime.
“Undoubtedly this will be extremely concerning news for our Jewish communities in Hackney and beyond, and I and my officers will be engaging with partners including the Community Safety Trust and the Shomrim, to answer their questions and listen to their views.
“Whilst the investigation will continue to explore the motivation for this offence, we believe at this stage that this was centred on a localised housing-related issue. We have no indication, at this very early stage, that the motivation was connected with any specific local or global events.
“I know our Jewish communities are about to begin celebrations for Purim, and we have a robust policing plan in place, including increased patrols and enhanced police visibility, to ensure the festivities can be enjoyed safely and securely.”
The police added that there is no suggestion the incident is terrorism-related.
Firefighters used a 32-metre turntable ladder as a water tower and the fire was under control by 3.28pm.
The London Fire Brigade added that the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Station Commander Alan Bendell, who was at the scene, said: “Crews worked hard to bring the fire under control and stop the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties."
Anyone with information can call the police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 3285/20Mar.
