Bootle Fire That Killed Four Linked to Battery Failure

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service says a lithium-ion battery caused the 22 September Bootle house fire that killed Elisha Brabin, 36, and her children Leo, 16, Ellis, 8, and Prudence, 7. An electrical event sent the battery into thermal runaway — a self-feeding cycle of overheating and fire. Crews arrived about 3.45am to find four lifeless in an upstairs bedroom.