Memorial collection for couple after fatal Nelson fire

Bill and Marlene Mumford Identified in Fatal House Fire

A well-known husband and wife, Bill and Marlene Mumford, lost their lives in a house fire.

Emergency services were called to Heol Fawr, Nelson, on Friday, December 12. They responded to reports of an explosion around 5:10 PM in the garden of the property. Police were contacted at approximately 6:10 PM.

Gwent Police stated that investigations to determine the circumstances of the fire are ongoing.

In a statement, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) reported that crews tackled the fire using eight breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets, one main jet, positive pressure ventilation, and a thermal imagery camera.

Mr. and Mrs. Mumford were confirmed dead at the scene.

Specialist teams from SWFRS conducted structural assessments to ensure the property was safe. A SWFRS spokesperson said, “Firefighters responded professionally and with great care under challenging circumstances, successfully preventing the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties.”

Delyth Jewell MS, Plaid Cymru Member for South Wales East, posted on social media, “My thoughts are with the loved ones of the two people who have died. And thank you to the emergency services for all they’re doing. It’s heartbreaking news.”

Cllr Sean Morgan, who represents Nelson on Caerphilly County Borough Council, stated, “This is a terrible tragedy that has shaken many of the residents of Nelson. Bill and Marlene were a well-known couple in the village who had lived there most of their lives. Under the circumstances, it is a shocking tragedy.”

A collection is now underway in Nelson to raise money for a memorial bench for the couple. Donations can be made at the village Co-op.

A separate fundraiser for a defibrillator for Nelson has also received support from well-wishers donating in the couple’s memory.

Incident Summary