Hackney house fire could be antisemitic attack, police say

Police are investigating whether a house fire in east London that destroyed two floors of a three-storey house was an antisemitic hate crime.

A man in his 60s, who was arrested near the scene in Hackney, had made threatening and “allegedly antisemitic” comments, the Met Police said.

Four people were injured but none are in a life-threatening condition.

Det Ch Supt James Conway said it would be “concerning news for our Jewish communities in Hackney and beyond”.

The arrested man is suspected of arson with intent to endanger life, and also suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital.

London Fire Brigade said eight fire engines and about 60 firefighters tackled the blaze, which broke out on Wednesday lunchtime.

Read more: BBC News