POLICE have confirmed a second person has been found dead in the block of flats that caught fire in Reading earlier this month.
One person had already been confirmed dead by police in the hours after the fire started at a block of flats on Rowe Court, off Grovelands Road, on the morning of December 15.
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said the pair are likely to be the two people reported missing, but they could not confirm their identities at this time.
The force has also revealed that the affected building is starting to collapse inwards which has resulted in some parts of the roof falling, meaning it will have to be demolished in a ‘controlled manner’.
READ MORE: Everything we know about Rowe Court Fire
It is possible that further collapses will occur in the coming days, police say, with the building now being deemed as ‘structurally unsafe’.
Due to the structural instability of the building, police say it ‘remains impossible’ to recover anyone else who is inside.
Residents are being warned that if a collapse does occur, the impact could be ‘loud’ and ‘visible to those living nearby’.
In the event of a collapse, people are advised that they should keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust from entering their homes.
An exclusion zone that is already in place will continue to protect properties and keep residents safe.
READ MOR: Plea to help brave man who risked his life to save others in fire
Superintendent Steve Raffield, Reading’s police chief, said: “I understand how distressing this ongoing situation is for all those affected, and in particular, those who live close to the building in question.
“I want people to be aware that all the emergency services, as well as partners, are doing everything we can to resolve things as quickly and safely as we can.
“I would like to reassure people that in the event of a collapse, they will not be in any danger and that measures are in place to ensure everyone’s safety.
“However, it is possible that a collapse could create a great deal of noise, as well as dust, and could happen at any time of the day or night, so it is important that people are aware of what may happen.
READ MORE: Scale of destruction of flats shown in shocking pictures
“If you become aware that part of the building has collapsed, there is no need to contact the emergency services.
“Our officers remain at the site, as they have done since the incident occurred, and anyone with any questions or concerns can approach them.”
Hakeem Kigundu, a 31-year-old man formerly of Rowe Court, was charged with one count of murder and one count of arson following the incident.
He appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 18 and is set to appear at Reading Crown Court on February 11, 2022.
READ MORE: Reading man appears in court following fire
Doug Buchanan, from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, added: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected in this challenging time.
“The damage to the building caused by the fire means that it is now structurally unsafe and, unfortunately, the building will now have to be demolished in a careful and controlled manner, which may take some time.
“The priority still remains to confirm whether those reported missing are within the building and if so, recover them respectfully and with dignity.
“As the weather continues to change, there is a possibility that the building could collapse further.
“The scaffolding and exclusion zone around the building will ensure that should this occur, it will not pose any risk to residents or neighbouring properties.
“However, in the event of collapse, we would advise that local residents keep their doors and windows closed to prevent any dust from entering their properties.
“We continue to work with local partners in this challenging and complex incident to ensure that we can resolve this as swiftly and as safely as possible.”
Help and support continues to be available from Reading Borough Council and their Contact Centre is available 24/7 please call 0118 937 3787 and stay on the line to be put through to emergency support, to help or signpost you to appropriate partner organisations
READ MORE: Fire victims to be moved to temporary accomodation
Victims First can also provide free emotional support and information. The office will be closed on certain days over the festive period – check opening hours at www.victims-first.org.uk
When the Victims First office is closed you can alternatively contact:
Mind information line - 0300 123 3393
The Samaritans (open 24/7) – 116 123
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