Terrifying video footage captured the rapid spread of flames, with explosions audible as occupants attempted to escape, and debris scattered across the street.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that the fire began on the first floor and escalated quickly, with several loud bangs and small explosions.

The e-bike involved in the incident was a modified pedal cycle purchased from an online marketplace, raising concerns about the safety of second-hand products.

The father of a family who died in a similar incident in Cambridge has called for urgent safety measures regarding e-bike batteries, highlighting the need for regulatory action.

Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, echoed these concerns, warning that modified or poorly manufactured batteries can lead to devastating fires.

More than 60 firefighters responded to the incident, utilizing eight fire engines to combat the blaze, which was fueled by a lithium-ion battery from a second-hand e-bike.

Field warned potential e-bike buyers to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, especially during the holiday season, and urged consumers to purchase from reputable sellers.

In response to rising incidents, the Department for Business and Trade initiated a campaign in October 2024 to encourage purchases of safe electrical products from reliable sellers.

Richard Field, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the LFB, noted that e-bikes are becoming one of London's fastest-growing fire hazards, with about 160 incidents reported in 2024.

Previous incidents, including a June 2024 fire in Bristol that resulted in a man's death due to an overheated e-bike battery, have prompted calls for government action to address this growing safety concern.

On December 20, 2024, a devastating explosion caused by an e-bike battery occurred in Catford, southeast London, resulting in significant property damage and the destruction of a family home.

At the time of the fire, three individuals were inside the house; two family members were trapped in the loft due to flames blocking their escape, while a male occupant suffered serious injuries after falling from the roof.