Family pay tribute to 'full-of-life' 13-year-old who died in house fire (2025)

"Layla was a typical, happy 13-year-old, filled with dreams, laughter and love"

The family of a 13-year-old who died in a house fire in Merseyside have paid tribute to her, as police and fire services launch an investigation into the blaze.

Layla Allen died following a fire on Kingsway in Prescot just before midnight on Wednesday, April 2, the Liverpool Echo reported.

A man, a woman and five other children escaped from the fire unharmed, according to Merseyside Police, but 13-year-old Layla was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a tribute issued via Merseyside Police today (April 4), the family said: "Layla was a shining light in the lives of everyone who knew her.

"She was funny, charismatic, and so quick-witted—always ready with a joke or a clever remark that brought smiles to those around her. With an infectious energy and a heart full of love, she had a way of making every moment brighter.

"She was a true friend to so many, always bringing laughter and warmth wherever she went. She had a passion for TikTok, makeup, and drawing—expressing her creativity in ways that made her uniquely Layla.

"Layla was a typical, happy, and full-of-life 13-year-old, filled with dreams, laughter and love. She was cherished beyond words by her mum, dad, brothers, sisters and grandparents who adored her deeply. She touched the hearts of everyone she met and left a lasting impact on so many.

"We thank everyone for their kind words and flowers. As a family we ask for everyone to respect our privacy and leave us to grieve at this truly sad time."

A large number of floral tributes, teddy bears and Disney characters have been left in the street where the tragedy occurred. Layla was a year 8 pupil at St Edmund Arrowsmith School in Whiston.

Today, the school's acting headteacher Clare McKenna paid tribute to Layla as she notified parents at the school of the tragedy. In a letter, she stated: "I am sorry to have to write to you with such sad news, but there is some information that it is important to share with you.

"This morning, we were notified that Layla Allen, a child in Year 8, died tragically last night in a house fire. Layla was a very special student who was full of spirit and brought happiness to all the people she met. She had a very big personality, and an even bigger heart - and her death will be felt deeply across the school."

The school has been in touch with Layla's family and Ms McKenna said the 'thoughts, prayers and condolences' of the entire school community have been passed on to them.

In her letter, she added: "It is hard to even comprehend how they must be feeling, particularly given the circumstances of this tragedy, but I have made it clear that we will do anything we can to support them.

"It is also important that we recognise the impact that this news will have on our school. When someone dies, particularly when they are so young, it is normal for us to experience lots of different emotions. This is only natural. It is also possible that such a tragedy might also trigger other feelings based on differing experiences you or your family may have had."

The school said that with news already circulating, they made the decision to tell students about Layla's death today. Specialists will be arriving to provide support and counselling to any pupils who may need it.

She added: "Such events are always difficult for any community, and we thank you in advance for your compassion and kindness. We will also be altering some of our end of term activities to help.

"We will continue to be guided by the wishes of Layla’s family, and will look to celebrate all the happiness that Layla brought to our community in some way over the coming weeks and months. May she rest in peace."

A joint investigation involving Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing regarding the circumstances of the fire.

Detective Inspector Steven O’Neill said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the young girl at this very sad time. A joint investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing and the girl’s family is being supported by specially trained officers.”

A Merseyside Police statement said: "We can confirm a joint investigation is underway between Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) following a fatal house fire in Kingsway, Prescot."