Man charged after Grangetown fire in which woman and girl died

A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder following a fatal house fire.

Natalie McDonald, 34, died in the blaze in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, in the early hours of Wednesday, along with her niece Valentina Foster, seven.

The man was charged with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, Cleveland Police say. He is scheduled to appear at Teesside Magistrates' Court later on Tuesday.

"This has been a truly tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with the families of all those involved," Senior Investigating Officer Katie Smith from Northumbria Police said.

"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 submit Information using the Major Incident Public Portal , she added.

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."