A man and woman killed in a horrific house fire in Blackpool have been named, with heartbreaking tributes continuing to pour in for the couple.
Joshua Pearson, 28, and Danielle Bamber, 24, lost their lives in the devastating blaze which broke out in the early hours of Wednesday (July 17). Police and fire crews were called to Peter Street in Blackpool at 2.39am on Wednesday after reports of a fire with people inside the property.
Danielle was tragically found dead at the scene. Joshua was rushed to Blackpool Victoria Hospital, where he later died. The couple lived in the house with their two children, aged six years and 20 months.
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The six-year-old was taken to hospital after the fire but did not suffer serious injuries. The 20-month-old baby remains in hospital in a “poor condition”, police said.
In a new tribute released by police, Joshua’s family said: “Joshua was a much loved son, who will be sadly missed, who adored his girlfriend and children.”
A heartbroken Jacqueline Pearson called him the “best brother ever” and described the couple as a pair of “beautiful angels” in a touching tribute. She wrote on social media: “I feel sick inside writing this Joshua, you were the best brother ever. I love you so much. I can’t believe this happened to you.”
“I will never forget our phone call the other day and how many times we laughed. I will cherish our memories forever! I love you forever and ever. Danielle, you will be missed terribly! I am so sorry this happened to you both! I love you both so much! Rest in peace my beautiful angels.”
Danielle’s family also paid tribute to the victim, saying: “As a family we are devastated by what has happened to Danielle, our daughter, and her family. Please allow us to grieve in peace and refrain from any further speculation on social media and do not post any further photos of Danielle and her family. Please respect our wishes at this time.”
Her friend Lucie Rose wrote on social media: “Heartbroken is not the right word. Oh Danielle,” while Chanel Addison wrote: “I can’t believe it. RIP Danielle, you will be missed.”
The couple lived at the address with their two children, aged six and 20 months. The six-year-old was taken to hospital after the fire but was fortunately not seriously injured. The 20-month-old remains in hospital in a critical condition.
Investigations are continuing to determine the exact cause of the fire and police say they are keeping an “open mind”. There is no evidence so far that the fire was started deliberately.
Chief Constable Mike Gladwin, Commander of Lancashire Police’s West Division, said: “My thoughts today are with those affected by this tragic event. This is an absolutely heartbreaking incident which has resulted in the deaths of two people and the loss of the parents of two young children. One of these young people remains very ill in hospital.
“Our work to try to understand exactly what happened to cause this devastating fire is ongoing and when we are able to give more information we will do so, but as I am sure people will appreciate, this may take some time.
“I know the news of this incident will have deeply affected people in the area and beyond and I want to thank the community for their support and understanding.”
Police are continuing to appeal for information and anyone who can help should call us on 101 or report via our website. Citation log 97 of 17 July 2024.
