We can confirm a joint investigation is underway between Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) following a fatal house fire in Kingsway, Prescot.

MFRS Fire Control received a 999 call at 11.42pm last night, Wednesday 2 April, with three fire engines on scene shortly after. On arrival, firefighters found one mid-terraced house with a fire located in the first-floor rear bedroom.

Four firefighters were committed in breathing apparatus (BA) to extinguish the fire and search for occupants.

A man, woman and five children were able to escape from the property unharmed.

Sadly, a 13-year-old girl was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family are aware and are being supported by specially trained officers.

The fire was extinguished at 00.29am this morning, Thursday 3 April, with natural ventilation taking place, and utilities to the premises were isolated.

Neighbouring properties were checked for fire and smoke spread. The property of origin was checked for further hotspots as fire crews monitored temperatures to the first floor, roof space, and externally.

Merseyside Police remained on scene to manage the cordon, and firefighters left the scene at 02.20am.

A joint investigation involving Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s Incident Investigation Team and Merseyside Police into the cause of the fire is ongoing and house-to-house and CCTV enquiries have been carried out in the local area.

Detective Inspector Steven O’Neill said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the young girl at this very sad time. A joint investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing and the girl’s family is being supported by specially trained officers.”

Firefighters and MFRS prevention staff will visit the local area to provide vital fire safety advice and complete home fire safety checks as part of a reassurance campaign in the coming days.