Murder Investigation - House Fire in Wolverhampton
**Crimestoppers Reward Offered** A murder investigation has been launched after a man died and four people were injured in a house fire in Wolverhampton
Details of Incident
We're releasing shocking footage today of an arson attack in Wolverhampton that claimed the life of a beloved son as we renew our appeal for witnesses to come forward.
Our investigators launched a murder enquiry following the fire at a family home in Plascom Road, East Park in the early hours of 25 June.
Tragically Akashdeep Singh, who was 26, was later pronounced dead at hospital.
Today his devastated family have issued a tribute to him, saying: “Our family is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Akashdeep Singh's passing; he was a kind, helpful, and deeply religious person whose loss brings us immense pain that will remain with us for the rest of our lives.
“A true hero, our precious son, whose boundless kindness, infectious laughter, and unwavering love filled our lives with immeasurable joy; his memory will forever be cherished, and the depth of his absence is profoundly felt every single day.”
Four other family members were injured in the fire and two weeks on, a 52-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy, remain in hospital in a critical but stable condition.
Two men, one in his 50s, and a second in his 20s were discharged from hospital after being treated for minor injuries.
We have been working round the clock to piece together what has happened and to bring whoever is responsible to justice.
As the footage shows, one offender is seen to smash a window and a fire was started, which resulted in the devastating blaze.
Investigators have been retrieving and reviewing CCTV and doorbell footage from around the area as we build up a picture of the events that night.
A thorough forensic examination has been carried out and officers have been working on extensive door-to-door enquiries.
Our local teams have also been patrolling the area to offer extra reassurance and we remain in close contact with community leaders as the investigation continues.
Our officers have also been supporting the family at this most awful time and keeping them updated.
Det Supt Shaun Edwards, from the Major Crime Unit, said: “This is a truly shocking and heartless attack on a family home which has resulted in one young man losing his life and, two other family members still very seriously injured in hospital.
“Investigators have worked closely with our fire service colleagues as we continue to progress the murder enquiry and we are now in a position to release footage which we believe will help us bring the perpetrator to justice.
“We believe one offender did leave the scene heading in the direction of East Park and we are considering the possibility that they may have some burn injuries themselves.
“So we would ask people to think back and consider if they know of anyone who has suffered such injuries about two weeks ago.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has already spoken to us and come forward with information and would urge anyone who is yet to do so, to think about what this family is going through and do the right thing.”
If you can help, call us on 101, or message via Live Chat on our website, quoting log 218 of 25 June.
Do you want to help but don't want to give your details? You can speak anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crimestoppers are Offering a Reward of up to £20,000 for Information that Leads to the Arrest and Conviction of Anyone Involved in this Fatal Incident