Man, 23, charged with two counts of murder after fatal house fire

A man has been charged with murder after a house fire which killed a seven-year-old girl and her aunt, police said.

Natalie McDonald, 34, and Valentina Foster died and four others were injured in the blaze in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, in the early hours of August 26.

On Tuesday, Cleveland Police said Jaden Wright, 23, of no fixed address, had been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent.

He will appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court later on Tuesday.

Katie Smith, senior investigating officer from Northumbria Police, said: “This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved.

“I would like to thank local residents for their support and patience during this complex investigation.

“Anyone who may still have information, or has any concerns, can still submit Information using the major incident public portal.”

Katie Nicolson, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, said: “Our prosecutors have worked closely with Cleveland Police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court.

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

“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings.”

A 31-year-old man who was also arrested in connection with the case was released without charge on Sunday.

Police said on Friday that a 48-year-old woman was in the Royal Victoria Infirmary in a “critical but stable” condition and a 27-year-old man was at James Cook University hospital receiving treatment.

Two teenage girls were both discharged after suffering non life-threatening injuries.

Published: 01/09/2026 by Radio NewsHub