18-year-old dies in North Shields house fire

Teenager Leah Casson Dies in House Fire

A “bubbly” teenager was killed in a house fire. Her mother and brother are in court charged in connection with her death.

Details of the Incident

Leah Casson, 18, died in a fire at her home on Vicarage Street, North Shields, North Tyneside. The fire occurred on January 16, 2023, just before 3:30 AM. Emergency services, including five fire engines, police, and paramedics, responded to the scene.

Three people escaped the fire, but Leah’s body was later found inside. Earlier this month, police revealed that two people were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Charges Filed

Leah’s mother, Danielle Johnson, 43, and her brother, Louis Casson, 19, have been charged with manslaughter. Danielle Johnson faces two counts of abstracting electricity, while Louis faces one count.

They appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court, where they confirmed their name, age, and address. Co-accused Craig Watson, 42, appeared via video link. He is charged with manslaughter and two counts of abstracting electricity. Calvin Smith, 37, is not charged with killing Leah but faces two counts of abstracting electricity.

Court Proceedings

All four defendants were granted unconditional bail. They are scheduled to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on February 10.

Tributes to Leah Casson

Leah’s loved ones paid tribute after her death. They said, “Leah was an outgoing, bubbly young woman who we loved so much and we can’t believe she has gone. Please let us grieve for her as a family and respect our privacy at this time.”