One child has died and another has been taken to hospital after a fire earlier today.
Six fire engines were called to the major blaze at a house in Hamstreet near Ashford.
Multiple firefighters were scrambled to the home in White Admiral Way after the flames broke out shortly after midday today (December 28).
Six fire engines and a height vehicle were sent to the scene at the Nightingale View estate, near Hamstreet Primary.
Neighbours were being urged to close their windows and doors due to the smoke coming from the home.
The fire service asked people to share the warning with loved ones in the area who may be affected but do not have internet access.
Meanwhile, a police spokesman confirmed the force was also called to the scene.
“Officers are in attendance and are assisting fire crews with the closure of the road while they extinguish the fire,” he said.
The British Red Cross and the fire service’s volunteer response team have also been called to the incident.
In an update at 5.45pm, KFRS shared the news that one child had died and another had been taken to hospital.
They said in a statement: “Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called today to reports of a house fire in White Admiral Way, in Hamstreet, Ashford.
“Control operators sent six fire engines and a height vehicle to the semi-detached property, where crews worked hard to extinguish an intense fire, which had spread throughout the home.
“Sadly, one child died at the scene, and another has been taken to hospital.
“People living or travelling near the Hamstreet area are still being advised to close windows and doors. The incident has been reduced to two fire engines and crews are continuing to dampen down. Our Volunteer Response Team are in attendance offering crew welfare and support.”
KFRS’ chief executive Ann Millington added: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child’s loved ones.
“We understand this will be a distressing time for the local community and support is available at a welfare hub set up at Hamstreet Village Hall.”
An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing.
As of 7pm, smoke could still be seen rising from the property. At least five fire engines remained at the scene, as well as several fire response vehicles.
The roof of the property had collapsed, and a height vehicle was being used to tackle the incident from above.
Police had also cordoned off a large part of the surrounding area.
Residents have stayed away from the cordon this evening, but one said they were asked by police not to share pictures or details of the incident.
Construction on Bovis Estate’s Nightingale View, which is opposite Hamstreet Primary and off Ashford, Road, began in 2023, with its first residents moving in that year.
