A teenager has been charged with murder after a pensioner died in a house fire.

The 17-year-old boy will appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court today (July 31) charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life.

On July 27, a man in his 70s was found dead in a house in Oval Road North, Dagenham at about 5.40pm.

"His family have been informed; formal identification awaits," police added.

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Murder detectives are investigating the fire, which police have been treating as suspicious.

Another male, arrested in connection with the fatal fire, was released on bail pending further enquiries.

The Metropolitan Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses.

"If you were in the area of Oval Road North between 5 and 6pm on Saturday, 27 July and saw the incident or the events surrounding the incident then please get in touch.

"Any drivers who were passing through the area around that time and may have captured anything on dash cam are also urged to contact police."

If you have information that could assist then contact officers on 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote CAD5619/27Jul.

You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.