An inquest has heard that a devastating fire in which resulted in the deaths of a young couple was accidental. Natasha Johnson-Mall and Karlo Bogdan died when a severe fire started at the home caused by an e-bike battery.
The fire took place on November 8, 2024. Neighbours called emergency services to report the blaze at a property in Coventry.
The couple was discovered alongside their pet dogs Tyagi and Medusa. After an investigation, the West Midlands Fire Service identified an e-bike battery as the source of the ignition. Veteran firefighter Dell Haughton described the incident as the “worst” he had seen in 21 years.
The number of fires connected to e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries has risen alarmingly, with e-bike and e-scooter incidents doubling year-on-year from 2022 to 2023, according to the West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS). Assistant Chief Fire Officer Richard Stanton said: “It is tragic that Natasha and Karlo lost their lives, and their families have shown incredible courage and compassion by speaking out in our video, hoping others might learn from this heartbreaking incident,” reports Coventry Live.
Natasha’s sister Ehsia, issued a warning to people, saying: “Unless you can afford to purchase an e-bike that has undergone rigorous testing and safety checks, do not buy one.” Natasha was remembered by her family as “beautiful and thoughtful”.
Ehsia said: “She was a truly precious person, uniquely thoughtful and beautiful in every way. I will never be the same, and I will never look at life the same.” Emily Fernandez, Head of Prevention at WMFS, stressed the importance of being careful when using e-bikes, saying: “It is vital and potentially life-saving that people use these products exactly as instructed.
“Always charge your e-bike while you are awake, unplug it once fully charged, use the approved charger that came with the product, and exercise extreme caution with conversion kits. If possible, charge e-bikes outside residential properties, and never charge them in corridors or near fire exits, should you need to leave your home.”