Eastwood family home raided by thieves after e-bike fire

The home, in Lundy Close, Eastwood, was badly damaged in the blaze which started on the ground floor and began to spread upstairs.

Holly Barwell, who was in the property at the time, described a “fireball” coming down the hallway as her family fled the home on October 15.

Now, she says the home has been looted, with electronics, jewellery and other items all being stolen.

The incident has been reported to Essex Police but has left the family heartbroken.

Holly lives opposite but was in the house at the time of the fire with her mum, dad, and brother - who all lived at the address.

She said: “The fire was very traumatic as the fireball came down the hall. I remember calling for my brother and dad to get out. To now have this person looting the property is distressing. We have seen the person do it and so have others.

“The thief has stolen various items home items, jewellery, my mum’s wedding ring, and electronics.

“It took place over several days, and I reported it to police on Monday, and so did my mum.

“We all feel very broken. It has been absolutely terrible. My family lost everything.

“The house is no longer liveable for them and they have all taken it very hard.”

During the fire, firefighters rescued two dogs, two tortoises and a cat.

Following an investigation, it is understood the fire was started by an electric bike charging in an area under the stairs.

At the time, watch manager Richard Blakebrough, from Leigh Fire Station, said: “Our firefighters did a fantastic job of containing the fire and stopping it spreading any further.

“The fire was caused by the electric bike, which was charging and only a few weeks old.

“Although we don’t believe the bike set alight due to mishandling, it’s a good reminder to others when charging e-bikes and e-scooters that you do so safely to avoid a risk of a fire starting and putting your family and home at risk.”