The murder of a seven-year-old boy in Deptford has shaken the community, Lewisham Council has said.
Joel Urhie was found dead early on Tuesday (August 7) morning after a blaze in Adolphus Street.
READ MORE - Deptford fire: Everything known so far about murder of Joel Urhie
The council's cabinet member for safety, Joani Reid, has made a statement to express condolences on behalf of the authority.
She said: “Joel’s death is a tragedy that has shaken us all.
“Deptford is a strong community and it is heartening to hear that people are coming together to support each other.
"Local councillors Joe Dromey and Brenda Dacres are speaking with residents today and trying to provide reassurance.
“We are working closely with the police to assist the investigation and I have asked our officers to ensure we are doing all we can to assist the family at such a distressing time.”
My thoughts are with the friends and family of the boy killed in Deptford last night after a fire on Adolphus Street.
— vickyfoxcroft (@vickyfoxcroft) August 7, 2018
I have been in contact with the Borough Commander and Police are appealing for anyone who has any information about the fire to contact 101.
Police are now investigating whether the arson attack is linked to a gang dispute.
READ MORE - Dad of little boy 'murdered' in Deptford house fire describes his heartbreak
Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan said she does not believe Joel was the target of the attack.
She said: “An innocent seven-year-old boy has lost his life in what should have been the safest place for him, his home.
"We're treating this as a murder investigation.
"We believe that the fire was started deliberately but at this stage I am unable to go into any further detail due to operational reasons.”
Anyone with information on this fire is requested to call police on 101 quoting CAD 933/07Aug or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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