A mother, described as ‘devastated,’ noticed a strong smell resembling nail varnish remover before an explosion occurred in her residence, prompting her son to jump from a window to save himself. Cheryl Whitter, aged 44, witnessed her home being engulfed in flames after an e-bike exploded in her front room, causing significant damage. The incident took place at a property in Mitcham on Lewis Road last Friday morning. Cheryl, along with her four children, had to relocate to a Premier Inn in Colliers Wood after their long-time family home became uninhabitable due to the fire.
Cheryl’s sister, Debbie Whitter, a full-time carer from Coulsdon, shared the panic and distress she experienced upon hearing about the fire. She expressed deep concern for her sister and her children, emphasizing the quick and dangerous spread of the flames. The fire was believed to have been triggered by a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery from the e-bike, emitting a distinct odor that Cheryl had detected before the explosion occurred.
During the chaotic moments of the fire, Cheryl’s maternal instincts led her to ensure the safety of her youngest child, Karim, before the family was evacuated from the property. Unfortunately, one of Cheryl’s children, Che, got trapped and had to escape through a window to avoid the fast-spreading flames. The lack of a door separating the living room from the rest of the house contributed to the rapid progression of the fire, leading to severe damage.
Debbie highlighted the community’s support, mentioning the generosity of locals who provided essential items and clothing for Cheryl and her family. AFC Wimbledon also contributed by donating beds and mattresses to assist in the family’s recovery. Despite the devastation caused by the fire, Cheryl and her children are grateful for the assistance they have received and the fact that they all survived the harrowing incident.
Cheryl’s older sister, Debbie, expressed her immense relief that everyone escaped the fire safely and pledged to stand by Cheryl until she fully recovers from the traumatic experience. A fundraiser has been launched to aid Cheryl and her family in rebuilding their lives after the tragedy.
