Ellie Ames 17 May 2024

Council launches investigation after five-year-old dies in tower block fall

Council launches investigation after five-year-old dies in tower block fall image
Image: Google Maps

Newham Council will carry out an investigation following the death of a five-year-old boy who fell from a tower block of flats in east London on Thursday.

Aalim Makail fell from an upper floor of Jacobs House in New City Road, Plaistow, at around 6am on Thursday (16 May). He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Metropolitan Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.

Newham Council chief executive Abi Gbago said: ‘Yesterday was a heartbreaking and tragic day for all concerned, and we are united both in our grief, and in our determination to ensure the family are fully supported.

‘We are undertaking a full investigation to reach the fullest possible understanding of what happened, and will fully support any other investigations.’

An anonymous resident of Jacobs House told the BBC the windows were of poor quality and that their design on high floors meant they were not safe for children.

The resident said: ‘You can actually unlatch the windows in the living room, kitchen and one of the bedrooms wide open which is clearly not meant to be safe. If a latch does break, it will not close properly and it could blow wide open no matter what.’

It has also been reported that the boy's aunt claimed that his mother had complained to the council about the windows being unsafe.

A spokesperson for the Building Safety Regulator said: ‘We are engaging with the appropriate agencies to understand the facts.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Financial Assessment Officer (Adult Social Care)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Shape outcomes across two leading London councils as a Financial Assessment Officer, delivering vital support that makes a real difference to residents' lives. England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

No Wrong Door Team Manager – (Registered Children’s Home Manager)

North Yorkshire Council
£53,051 to £57,372 per annum
You will provide inspiring leadership, management and direction to staff, ensuring our culture, values and practice model Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Occupational Therapist

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Be part of a long-term complex occupational team that cares about patients and cares about you In Kensington and Chelsea, we support people's independence and wellbeing and work hard to enable them to live in the community with dignity, choice and cont England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Property Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,427 to £27,709 p.a. (Grade 4)
An opportunity has arisen within Corporate Property and Land for a part time, permanent Property Assistant based at Aycliffe Secure Centre in Newton A Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Community Wellbeing Assistant

Durham County Council
£27,274 - £29,542
Temporary until March 2028  2 x 15 hours posts   Wellbing Sport and leisure are looking for 2 x 15 hours Wellbeing Assistant to join their team in th Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner