Man charged with homicide after woman, 7, and aunt die in Grangetown home fireplace
Natalie McDonald, 34, and her niece Valentina Foster both died following the blaze at Birchington Avenue in Grangetown
Valentina Foster, seven, and her aunt Natalie McDonald, 34
A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder following a house fire that tragically claimed the lives of a seven-year-old girl and her auntie.
Police were alerted to reports of a blaze at Birchington Avenue in Grangetown at 5.23am on August 26.
Natalie McDonald, 34, and her niece, Valentina Foster, both died while four others were injured in the ‘tragic incident’.
The aunt and seven-year-old were killed in the blaze(Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
On Tuesday, Cleveland Police announced that a 23-year-old man has been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent.
He’s set to appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court later on Tuesday.
Katie Smith, senior investigating officer from Northumbria Police, said: “This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved.
“I would like to thank local residents for their support and patience during this complex investigation.
Tributes have been left for the family members(Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
“Anyone who may still have information, or has any concerns, can still submit Information using the Major Incident Public Portal.”
Katie Nicolson, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, added: “Our prosecutors have worked closely with Cleveland Police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court.
“We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.
“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings.”
A 31-year-old bloke who was also nicked in connection with the case was let go without charge on Sunday.
The police provided an update on those hurt in the fire on Friday.
A 48-year-old woman was at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in a “critical but stable” condition and a 27-year-old man was receiving treatment at James Cook University hospital.
Two teenage girls were both discharged after suffering non life-threatening injuries.
