Mother dies after Clifton flat fire that killed her two children

A mother has died in hospital just days after her two children were killed in a flat fire in Clifton, Nottinghamshire Police has confirmed.

Fatoumatta Hydara, aged 28, was taken to Queen’s Medical Centre following the fire in Fairisle Close, Clifton, at 3.17am on Sunday, 20 November.

She was placed on a life support machine but died on Tuesday morning.

Her two children, Naeemah Drammeh, aged one, and Fatimah Drammeh, aged three, were taken to the same hospital but were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

A triple murder investigation has been launched after it was concluded the fire was started deliberately.

A 31-year-old man from Clifton who was arrested on Sunday night remains in custody.

Police were given an additional 36 hours to interview him.

Detectives said they are supporting Fatoumatta's husband and the father of the two children, who was not in the UK at the time of the fire.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Sinski said a large team of detectives has been working long days and nights to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

He said: "We are dealing with one of the most horrendous crimes - the death of two young children and their mother."

He adds: "This is a deeply upsetting tragedy and I can only imagine the family’s pain. They include the woman’s husband and the father of the two children, who was not in the UK at the time of the fire.

"Both he and other members of the family are being supported by specially-trained officers at this incredibly difficult time and we ask for the media to give them privacy while they deal with this incredible loss.

"We would specifically like to speak to anyone who was in or around Fairisle Close between between 12am and 4.30am on Sunday morning."

Police said high visibility patrols will be based in the area over the coming days to offer reassurance.