A second teenage boy has been charged with murder and arson after a pensioner died in a house fire in Dagenham.

Robert Price, 76, was found to have died of smoke inhalation and burns after the fire in Oval Road North on July 27.

Metropolitan Police have confirmed that a 16-year-old boy was charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life yesterday (August 4).

He is now due to appear at Barkingside Youth Court later today.

It comes two days after a 17-year-old boy appeared at the Old Bailey on the same charges.

He was remanded into custody to appear at the same court for a pre-trial plea hearing on October 18.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, Senior Investigating Officer, said that the police investigation is ongoing.

He also asked for the privacy of Robert’s family to be respected at this time.

Any witnesses, or anyone who was in the area between 5pm and 6pm on the day of the fire, have been asked to get in touch with police.

Officers are especially keen to talk with drivers who have dashcam footage.

If you think you can help, contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD5619/27Jul.

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