At a Glance
- Lily Anne Childs, 13, died after a fire engulfed her family’s new-build home near Ashford, England, on December 28.
- Firefighters were unable to reach her because the staircase collapsed during the blaze.
- The coroner says her death appears to be caused by inhalation of fire fumes.
- Why it matters: The tragedy highlights potential safety concerns in newly constructed homes.
A teenage girl has died following a devastating house fire in Hamstreet, near Ashford, England. Lily Anne Childs, also known as Lily Kennedy, was killed when flames ripped through her family’s property shortly after midday on December 28.
Firefighters Halted by Collapsed Stairs
Emergency crews rushed to the scene after multiple witnesses called for help. Six fire crews responded, according to Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Coroner Sarah Clarke told the court that neighbors tried to save the girl but the fire was too intense. “Multiple witnesses called the emergency services, and it was reported that neighbors attempted to rescue the child, but the flames were too aggressive,” Clarke said.
The rescue attempt faced a critical obstacle. “Firefighters tried to get upstairs, but the stairs collapsed, and they could not get access,” Clarke added during Monday’s hearing at Oakwood House in Maidstone.
Aftermath and Investigation
The fire caused extensive damage to the newly built home. Ground-floor windows were completely blown out, and nearby residents were told to close windows and doors due to heavy smoke.
Emergency teams remained on site until 7 p.m. local time on December 29 while investigators worked to determine the cause. Police have stated the fire is not being treated as suspicious.
Another child and an adult-believed to be Lily’s mother-were taken to the hospital following the incident.
Community Response
Kent Fire Rescue Service Chief Executive Ann Millington expressed condolences: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child’s loved ones.”
A welfare hub was set up at Hamstreet Village Hall to support the local community.
A GoFundMe fundraiser was launched to help Lily’s parents, Annemarie Childs and Chris Kennedy.
Lily’s aunt, Marie Louise, shared a tribute on Facebook: “Rest in peace sweet sweet girl xx.” She later posted: “My poor poor niece 😢 thoughts and prayers are with my brother, and Lily’s mum 🙏 xx.”
Medical Findings and Next Steps
Coroner Sarah Clarke stated that Lily’s medical cause of death appears to be inhalation of fire fumes, though further investigation is required to confirm.
The inquest has been adjourned and is scheduled to continue on March 30.
Key Takeaways:
- A 13-year-old girl died after a house fire in Hamstreet, England.
- Firefighters couldn’t reach her due to a collapsed staircase.
- The blaze is not considered suspicious.
- A full inquest will resume in March.
