West Midlands Police confirmed that a woman in her 30s was arrested following the fatal fire at a property on Mason Street. The blaze broke out at around 8.30pm on Friday, 24 April, and firefighters arrived within five minutes of receiving reports, according to West Midlands Fire Service. Crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and rescued two young children, but despite their efforts, the boys were pronounced dead at the scene, the police said.
Two other children and a woman had already escaped the house before emergency services arrived. They were checked by ambulance staff but did not require hospital treatment, according to research reports. The survivors are believed to be related to the deceased, though police have not confirmed the exact relationships.
The arrested woman remains in custody as detectives conduct door-to-door enquiries and review CCTV footage from the area, West Midlands Police said. The force has not disclosed the woman's identity or her relationship to the victims. The arrest was made on suspicion of causing or allowing the death of two children, a charge that typically involves a duty of care towards the deceased.
A cordon remains in place around the scene and is likely to stay for some time, police said. Multiple sources reported that the area has been sealed off as investigators continue their work. Specialist officers are supporting the family of the deceased children, according to West Midlands Police.
Detective Chief Inspector Kylie Westlake of the Public Protection Unit said: "This is a truly tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the two young boys who have died." She added that the investigation is in its early stages and urged anyone with information to come forward.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and it remains unclear why the woman was arrested on suspicion of causing or allowing death rather than arson or manslaughter. Police have not confirmed whether the arrested woman is cooperating with investigators. The relationship between the woman and the deceased children, as well as the two other children and the woman who escaped, has not been disclosed. The investigation is ongoing.