E-bike battery fire caused couple's deaths - coroner

A young couple died as a result of a house fire which was "most likely" caused by faulty e-bike batteries, a coroner has concluded.

Josh Pearson, 28, and Danielle Bamber, 24, died after a fire devastated their home in Peter Street, Blackpool, in the early hours of 17 July. The couple left two young children.

Blackpool Coroner Alan Wilson recorded a finding of accidental death.

It comes after the fire service in London said e-bikes were becoming one of the capital's fastest-growing fire risks, with more than 130 fires in the city up to the end of September – more than three a week.

The coroner said Preston-born Ms Bamber's body was found near the front bay window of their home, after a member of the public reported the fire at about 02:35 BST on 17 July.

He added: "Danielle had become unresponsive after inhaling fumes which proved fatal."

Huddersfield-born Mr Pearson was found unconscious by firefighters in a bathroom doorway.

He was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital where, despite the efforts of emergency staff, he could not be revived.

LIke Ms Bamber, the coroner said Mr Pearson "died after he became unresponsive due to inhaling fumes which proved fatal".

"The fire most likely started due to an electrical fault on the batteries of electric bikes," he concluded.

In tributes released shortly after their deaths Mr Pearson's family said: "Joshua was a much-loved son, that will be sorely missed, who adored his girlfriend and children."

The family of Ms Bamber said: "We as a family are devastated by what has happened to Danielle - our daughter - and her family.

"Please allow us respect as a family to grieve in peace."