Pair quizzed over Philpott sibling deaths at Derby house fire released without charge

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A man and a woman who were arrested in connection with a house fire in which six siblings died have been released without charge, police said.

The 34-year-old man and 29-year-old woman were arrested last Thursday and questioned over the deaths of Jade Philpott, 10, and her brothers John, nine, Jack, eight, Jesse, six, Jayden, five, and 13-year-old Duwayne.

Derbyshire Police said the man and woman were released on bail to return to a police station today and have since been released without charge.

The six children died as a result of the blaze which swept through their home in Victory Road, Derby, on May 11.

Duwayne was taken to hospital after being pulled from the house by firefighters in the aftermath of the fire at the family home but died two days later.

The children's parents, Mick Philpott, 55, and his 31-year-old wife, Mairead, have been charged with all six murders and are due to go on trial next year.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cotterill said: "This is a continuing inquiry into the death of six children in a house fire on May 11.

"Every avenue of inquiry has to be thoroughly explored as this complex investigation is carried out."

Anyone who has any information which may help Derbyshire Police can contact them on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

PA