A mother and four of her children died in a house fire in Britain early on Monday following a suspected arson attack.
Police and firefighters said neighbours raised the alarm after being woken by smoke billowing from the end-of-terrace house in Harlow, in the southern county of Essex, early on Monday.
Reports said the woman and three children, all described as being of Asian origin, were found dead at the scene. They were aged six, 11 and 13.
A fourth child died later in hospital, where a fifth remains in critical condition. The two children who were taken to hospital were aged three and nine.
Unconfirmed reports said a man, believed to be the children's father had been treated of minor injuries.
Investigating Officer Rob Vinson, describing the deaths as “tragic,’’ said, “At this time we are investigating to see whether this fire was started deliberately. ’’