Key Points:
- A 39-year-old woman has died following a house fire in east London, Ontario.
- Emergency crews responded to the blaze at 1884 Avalon Street around 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
- The woman was found badly injured on the front lawn and taken to hospital but later died from her injuries.
- More than 30 firefighters battled the fire, which caused an estimated $500,000 in damage.
- Neighbours reported flames shooting from the windows and raised concerns about ongoing issues at the property.
- The Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze.
- London police confirmed the woman’s death on Sunday and said the investigation remains ongoing.
- Anyone with information is urged to contact London police or Crime Stoppers.
A 39-year-old woman has died after suffering severe injuries in a house fire that tore through a residential property in east London, Ontario, on Thursday afternoon. Emergency services rushed to 1884 Avalon Street shortly after 3 p.m., where firefighters discovered the injured woman outside the home. Despite being transported to hospital by paramedics, the woman succumbed to her injuries, London police confirmed on Sunday.
Where did the house fire in east London occur?
The fire broke out at a single-family home located at 1884 Avalon Street, north of the Clarke Road and Dundas Street intersection. Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene shortly after 3 p.m. on April 17, 2025.
What happened to the woman found at the scene?
Firefighters discovered a 39-year-old woman badly injured on the front lawn of the property. She was immediately rushed to hospital; however, she later died from her injuries. Authorities have not yet released her identity.
How severe was the damage caused by the fire?
The blaze caused significant destruction, with damage estimates reaching $500,000. Witnesses reported seeing flames shooting from the windows before firefighters, numbering more than 30, managed to bring the fire under control by about 4 p.m.
Who is investigating the cause of the fire?
Investigators from the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal were at the scene on Friday to inspect the aftermath. The provincial agency typically investigates fatal fires, incidents involving explosives, fires linked to drug activity, or any case where damage exceeds $500,000.
What have neighbours said about the property?
Neighbours told The London Free Press that homeless individuals had been frequenting the backyard of the property for several years. City hall bylaw officials had reportedly conducted multiple cleanups at the address over the past five years.
In the aftermath of the fire, charred e-bikes, scooters, shopping carts, and makeshift shelters were visible in the backyard.
Is the investigation into the east London fire still ongoing?
Yes, London police stated on Sunday that the investigation remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact London police at (519) 661-5670 or reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
