Man charged with murder after Middlesbrough fire that killed girl, 7, and her aunt

Man charged with murder after Middlesbrough fire that killed girl, 7, and her aunt Man, 23, scheduled to appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court later today - Bookmark A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder following a house fire that killed a seven-year-old girl and her aunt, police said. Officers were called to reports of a blaze at Birchington Avenue in Grangetown near Middlesbrough at 5.23am on 26 August. Natalie McDonald, 34, and her niece Valentina Foster both died while four people were injured. On Tuesday, the Cleveland police said the 23-year-old man had been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, and two counts of attempted section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent. He was scheduled to appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court later on Tuesday. “This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved,” Katie Smith, senior investigating officer from the Northumbria police, said. “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 Nicolson, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, said that prosecutors worked closely with the police to establish that there was sufficient evidence to bring the case to court. “We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial,” she said. “It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings.” A 31-year-old man who was also arrested in connection with the case was released without charge on Sunday. Police said on Friday that a 48-year-old woman was in the Royal Victoria Infirmary in a “critical but stable” condition and a 27-year-old man was at the James Cook University hospital receiving treatment. Two teenage girls were both discharged after suffering non life-threatening injuries in the fire. [Image text:] POLICE LINE POLICE LINE DO NOT CROSS