Ilford, London – August 23, 2025 – A devastating suspected arson attack has left three individuals in a life-threatening condition following a fire at a popular restaurant in Ilford, east London. Emergency services were called to the scene on Woodford Avenue in Gants Hill shortly after 9:00 PM on Friday, August 22, where firefighters battled to control a blaze that engulfed part of the ground floor.
Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident as a suspected arson, with the London Fire Brigade also involved in the inquiry. The fire service received seven calls reporting the blaze, dispatching crews from Ilford, Hainault, Leytonstone, and Woodford. Firefighters worked swiftly to extinguish the flames by 10:32 PM, having rescued five people from the burning building. An additional nine individuals managed to escape the premises before the arrival of emergency personnel.
Emergency Response and Casualties
The coordinated response saw police, paramedics, and firefighters converge on the busy Woodford Avenue thoroughfare. Paramedics treated five people at the scene for severe burns and smoke inhalation. Of these five, three remain in a critical, life-threatening condition, and have been transferred to hospital. The London Ambulance Service dispatched multiple resources, including an advanced paramedic, an incident response officer, and a hazardous area response team, alongside a trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance. Two of the injured were taken to a major trauma centre, while the other three were transported to local hospitals.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime North unit, acknowledged the concern the incident would cause within the community. “My team of specialist detectives are working at speed to piece the incident together,” he stated. “Locals can expect to see a large police presence in the area. If you have any concerns, please speak to those officers on the ground.”
CCTV Footage and Witness Accounts
Disturbing CCTV footage has reportedly emerged, allegedly capturing the moments leading up to the inferno. The visual evidence is said to show a group of individuals, their faces obscured, entering the restaurant before commencing the attack. Reports suggest liquid was poured onto the floor, quickly igniting the establishment. Further footage appears to show a man running from the building with his clothing ablaze.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and terror. Edward Thawe, a 43-year-old hospital porter living nearby, stepped outside with his son after hearing screams. He described the scene as “horrible” and “more than scary,” recalling seeing a man with his “whole body burnt” and skin peeling. “I heard screaming and people saying they had called the police,” Thawe recounted. Another local businessman, Sayed Bokhari, likened the scene to a “Halloween scene,” expressing deep concern for the safety of businesses and residents in the area. He noted the vulnerability of retail spaces that welcome customers in, highlighting the challenges of ensuring security.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
As of Saturday, August 23, no arrests have been made in connection with the suspected arson attack. The Metropolitan Police have established a large police cordon around the premises as forensic officers conduct a thorough examination of the scene. A trail of what appeared to be bloodstained footprints was observed along the pavement, with several items bagged as evidence.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting, the Member of Parliament for Ilford North, posted on social media to express his gratitude to the emergency services for their rapid response. He urged the public to avoid the area while investigations were ongoing and noted that further updates would be provided.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist their investigation. Those with details are urged to contact the Met Police on 101, quoting reference number 7559/22AUG. Alternatively, individuals can provide information anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
This shocking event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by businesses and communities in London regarding public safety. The investigation into the suspected arson attack at the Gants Hill restaurant continues as authorities seek to identify those responsible for this dangerous act.
