6th child dies following Derby house fire
Teenager loses his fight for life following the blaze in Allenton.
Derbyshire police have confirmed that a sixth child has died following the fire at a house on Victory Road in the Allenton area of Derby in the early hours of Friday May 11th 2012.
Duwayne Philpott, aged 13, lost his fight for life overnight in the Birmingham Children’s Hospital with his parents at his bedside.
His sister Jade Philpott (aged 10) and brothers John Philpott (9), Jack Philpott (7), Jessie (6) and Jayden Philpott (5) all died in the fire.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cotterill said: “I am sad to confirm the news that Duwayne has died as a result of the injuries he suffered in the fire.
“My deepest sympathies go out to Mr and Mrs Philpott at this distressing time.
“The family has asked for privacy as they come to terms with the events of Friday and the loss of their children”.
A spokesman from Birmingham Children’s Hospital said: “Despite the intensive care team’s greatest efforts, the injuries that Duwayne received in the fire were too great for him to survive.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”
ACC Cotterill added: “This investigation is still at an early stage and it should be stressed that we have not yet had the opportunity to speak to Mr and Mrs Philpott properly because they’ve been caring for their son in Birmingham.”
“I want to thank the local community who have already come forward but I would urge anyone with any information, regardless of how insignificant you think it may be, to contact us.
“We would specifically like to speak to anyone who was in or around Victory Road between 3am and 4am on Friday morning.”
The man and woman who were arrested in connection with the fire were released without charge.
Anyone with information should contact the police on 101, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or email appeals@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk|.
