A YOUNG girl has died and another has been taken to hospital after an “intense” fire erupted in a home on a quiet residential street.
The blaze ripped through a house in Hamstreet near Ashford, Kent, earlier today.
Six fire engines and a height appliance were scrambled to the semi-detached house shortly after midday.
Tragically, a young girl was pronounced dead at the scene while a second youngster was rushed to hospital.
Pillars of smoke pouring from the home prompted Kent Fire and Rescue to order locals to keep their windows and doors shut.
People were also urged to avoid the area as emergency crews work to battle the blaze.
It remains unclear what sparked the fire which is understood to now be under control.
Police and the fire service have launched investigations into the cause of the inferno.
Images from the scene of the fatal fire show the severe extent of the damage done to the house with the windows completely blown out and charred black by the blaze.
Santa and Rudolph sleigh decorations in the front garden can be seen completely deflated in a heap on the lawn.
The fire appears to have torn a gaping hole in the roof of the property with smoke left to billow out and fill the street.
The entire top floor of the home looks to have been charred by the intense heat of the flames.
Two fire engines currently remain at the scene and are continuing to “dampen down” the property.
Neighbours told The Metro that they tried to enter the home and offer assistance before fire crews arrived.
One told the outlet: “It started downstairs and spread really quickly.
“There was nothing we could do at that point. It was really bad. We were all beaten back.”
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: “Control operators sent six fire engines and a height vehicle to the semi-detached property, where crews worked hard to extinguish an intense fire, which had spread throughout the home.
“Sadly, one child died at the scene, and another has been taken to hospital.
“People living or travelling near the Hamstreet area are no longer being advised to close windows and doors.
“The incident has been reduced to two fire engines and crews are continuing to dampen down.
“Our Volunteer Response Team are in attendance offering crew welfare and support. “
Ann Millington, KFRS’ Chief Executive added: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child’s loved ones.
“We understand this will be a distressing time for the local community and support is available at a welfare hub set up at Hamstreet Village Hall.”
Kent Police said: “Kent Police was called at 12.22pm on Sunday 28 December 2025 to reports of a fire at a house on White Admiral Way in Hamstreet.
“Officers are in attendance and are assisting Kent Fire and Rescue crews with closure of the road while they extinguish the fire.”
