Man charged after fire in which woman and girl died

A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder after a house fire killed a woman and her seven-year-old niece in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough.

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This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved.

Natalie McDonald, 34, and Valentina Foster died in the blaze during the early hours of Wednesday. Cleveland Police charged the man with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent under section 18, and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent under section 18.

He is scheduled to appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. Senior Investigating Officer Katie Smith described the incident as “a truly tragic incident” and thanked local residents for their support and patience during the investigation.

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Our prosecutors have worked closely with Cleveland Police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court.

CPS North East chief crown prosecutor Katie Nicolson said prosecutors had worked with Cleveland Police to establish that there was sufficient evidence to bring the case to court. She reminded the public that the defendant has the right to a fair trial and warned against reporting or sharing information that could prejudice the proceedings.

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We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.