Catastrophic explosion ravages Indian restaurant, causing one individual to sprint away in flames as authorities investigate potential arson incident
In a shocking incident that unfolded in Gants Hill, Ilford, on Friday night, a suspected arson attack on the Indian restaurant India Aroma has left five people injured, with three in a life-threatening condition.
The incident occurred at approximately 9pm, as reported by the London Ambulance Service, who were called to the scene at 9.04pm. The London Fire Service also responded, mobilizing crews from Ilford, Hainault, Leytonstone, and Woodford fire stations.
Footage obtained from the scene shows smoke billowing from the building, with people running outside, including one person on fire. A trail of what appeared to be bloodstained footsteps was spotted by a forensic officer.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting took to social media to post a message of thanks to the emergency services involved in the incident. Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, advised people to avoid the area and to contact the Redbridge Police if they have any information.
A major investigation by the Metropolitan Police and London Fire Service is underway into the cause of the blaze. CCTV footage shows a sudden flash of flames entering the restaurant through the front doorway.
Two patients were taken to a major trauma centre, and three others were taken to local hospitals. The London Ambulance Service dispatched ambulance crews, an advanced paramedic, an incident response officer, and paramedics from the hazardous area response team to the scene.
A 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of being responsible for the attack. Uniformed officers are guarding a police cordon that was in place on Saturday, and a manhunt is underway with no arrests made.
Another individual posted on social media about police presence and road closures in Gants Hill. TikTok user claims to have been in the area at 3am and observed forensic teams at the scene.
Part of the ground floor was damaged by the fire. The London Fire Service is investigating the cause of the fire alongside the Metropolitan Police Service.
The Metropolitan Police are treating the incident as a suspected "arson attack." The police cordon remains in place, and the investigation is ongoing.
