A schoolboy has died after being pulled out of a house fire in Birkenhead, while three others who jumped from the top floor remain in hospital.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) was called to Keele Close on the Beechwood Estate in the early hours of yesterday morning.
When emergency crews arrived at the two-storey, semi-detached property, they found people outside who had leapt from the first floor windows.
Firefighters then rescued the eight-year-old schoolboy from inside but, despite first aid efforts from fire crews and paramedics, he tragically died shortly afterwards.
Three people continue to be treated in hospital and their injuries are not considered life-threatening.
An investigation by the MFRS and Merseyside Police has revealed the fire was accidental.
The property on Keele Close in Birkenhead where an eight-year-old boy died from a house fire
Mourners have placed down floral tributes, balloons and teddies at the scene
Mourners have since arrived at the scene to put down floral tributes, balloons and teddies.
Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan, who attended the fire, said: ‘This has been a very tragic incident, with an incredibly sad outcome despite the best efforts of my crews.
‘Our thoughts are very much with the family, friends and loved ones of the young boy at this time. We also know the impact that an incident like this will have on the local community and share our heartfelt condolences.
‘I would like to commend the efforts of my fire control team and fire crews who acted so quickly to rescue the young boy and North West Ambulance Service colleagues who made every effort to provide emergency resuscitation.’
Firefighters will visit the local area to provide vital fire safety advice and complete free home fire safety checks as part of a reassurance campaign in the coming days.
