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News

West Malling fatal house fire victim named as Jackie Allen

By: William Janes

Published: 16:36, 19 November 2018

Updated: 11:15, 22 November 2018

A woman who tragically died after a fire tore through a home on a quiet residential street has been named as Jackie Allen.

Emergency services rushed to the scene of the blaze in Spitfire Road, West Malling, near Kings Hill at around 9pm on Saturday.

Ms Allen, who was in her 60s, was taken to hospital but later died and police have launched a murder investigation.

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Jackie Allen (5539739)

A child was also treated for a leg injury and smoke inhalation and a dog also died.

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Jenny Seal, who also lives in Spitfire Road said: “It was so traumatic on the night. I was just coming around the corner and the house was on fire. I could just hear screaming. A lot of the neighbours were out and rushed over to help. It's so tragic and it has brought together the whole street."

The fire tore through the home in a quiet residential estate

The 54-year-old added: “I’ve known Jackie for about 40 years, ever since I’ve lived on the estate, really. Mandy used to go around with my sister when we were younger, they’re a lovely family. I’d always say hello when I’d see Jackie, she was a really lovely mother and grandmother.”

House fire and murder scene at Spitfire Road, West Malling. Picture: Matthew Walker. (5481357)

A neighbour of Ms Allen who was in tears and didn’t want to be named said she had known Jackie for 37 years, adding: "She was a lovely person, always willing to help. I’d often have a laugh and a joke with her. We were quite close as neighbours, if we ran out of sugar or something we’d help each other out. I’m really shaken up, it’s just awful."

Flowers have been left at the scene in memory of Jackie Allen

This evening Rev Pat Dickin from St Lawrence Church in Mereworth was due to head to the scene to say prayers after the tragedy and said people living nearby were welcome to join her.

A video captured by Matthew Walker shows the remaining police presence as the investigation continues.

Friends and neighbours have been leaving floral tributes near the house in Ms Allen's memory while others have started online fundraising pages to raise money to support Ms Allen's family.

A 51-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

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