Investigators confirm cause of Easton tower block fire which killed man

Investigators have determined the cause of the fatal fire in Easton on Sunday (September 25) was caused by an electric bike.

Fire crews, comprising of 11 fire engines, attended Twinnell House, on Wills Drive, off Stapleton Road, shortly after 2.15am.

One man has been confirmed dead after leaping from the top floor of the building to escape the blaze - eight others were taken to hospital for treatment.

Ninety residents were evacuated to a nearby church throughout the night and Bristol City Council has confirmed its housing officers are continuing to provide support both at Twinnell House and also by making welfare calls to all residents over the coming days.

The flat has since been declared safe to return to.

A council spokesperson said: “The investigators also report that all of the fire measures worked well and the fire was contained in the flat where it began.

“There is some smoke damage to communal areas of the building, but no other flats were directly damaged by the fire.

“Fire doors and alarms both within the flat, and on the top floor, responded as expected given the circumstances. This meant that emergency services had the time needed to tackle the fire and get people out safely.”

Avon Fire and Rescue area manager Steve Quinton, who conducted the fire investigation, said: “Our thoughts go out to all those impacted by the fire at Twinnell House.

“I’d like to thank police, ambulance, council and those in the community that supported us throughout the incident.

“After seeing the tragic fire, understandably, local people are concerned about fire risk in their own homes, whether they live in flats in the city or otherwise.

“If you’re concerned about fire safety in your home, one of the most important things to do is to make sure your escape routes are clear, and ensure that everyone living in the property knows how to get out in the event of an emergency.

“Remember, if you see a fire or smoke in any building: get out, stay out and call 999.”