A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder after a house fire killed a seven-year-old girl and her aunt, police said. The incident occurred in Grangetown, UK, on 26 August.
Officers were called to reports of a blaze at Birchington Avenue at 5:23 a.m. on 26 August. Firefighters found the bodies of Natalie McDonald, 34, and her niece Valentina Foster. Four others were injured.
On Tuesday, Cleveland police said the man had been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. He is scheduled to appear at Teesside Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.
Katie Smith, senior investigating officer from Northumbria police, said: "This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved. I would like to thank local residents for their support and patience during this complex investigation. Anyone who may still have information, or has any concerns, can still submit information using the major incident public portal."
Katie Nicholson, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, said: "Our prosecutors have worked closely with Cleveland police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court. We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."
A 31-year-old man arrested in connection with the case was released without charge on Sunday. Police said a 48-year-old woman remains in hospital in a "critical but stable" condition, and a 27-year-old man is receiving treatment at James Cook University Hospital. Two teenage girls have been discharged after suffering non-life-threatening injuries.