A mother, Cheryl Whitter, experienced a strong smell of nail varnish remover before her home exploded due to a faulty e-bike, compelling her son to leap from a window to save himself. The incident occurred at their Mitcham residence on Lewis Road, engulfing the property in flames last Friday morning, leaving the family displaced. Cheryl and her four children are currently residing at a Premier Inn in Colliers Wood, with the house they lived in for 12 years now uninhabitable.
Cheryl’s sister, Debbie Whitter, a full-time carer from Coulsdon, recounted the heart-wrenching moment she feared for her sister’s life upon hearing about the fire. She described the rapid spread of the fire caused by the absence of a door between rooms, leading to a devastating explosion when the flames reached the hallway where gas pipes were located.
Despite the traumatic experience, the family is receiving support from the local community, including free meals and donations of essential items. AFC Wimbledon has contributed by providing beds and mattresses to assist in their recovery. Cheryl’s older sister, Debbie, expressed immense relief that everyone escaped unharmed and emphasized the importance of community support during this challenging time.
A fundraiser has been initiated to aid Cheryl and her family in rebuilding their lives after the tragic incident. The community’s generosity and solidarity have been instrumental in helping the Whitter family navigate through this difficult period.