The Death Toll from the Grenfell Tower Fire in London Reaches 79

London police announced that the death toll from the Grenfell Tower fire in London has risen to 79. Stuart Cundy, the commander of the London police, stated on Monday, June 25, that the number of casualties may continue to rise. Grenfell Tower, which housed nearly 600 people in 120 apartments, caught fire six days ago. The initial death toll was reported as 12, but it has steadily increased to 79 in recent days. However, Mr. Cundy mentioned that the police have officially identified five of the victims so far. According to the London police commander, the search and recovery operation at the burned tower, which was built 43 years ago and renovated last year, is ongoing. Mr. Cundy stated, 'We must ensure that those responsible for this incident are brought to justice.' Residents of the tower reported that although the fire engulfed part of the building, the alarm did not sound, causing some to be unaware of the fire. Protests against Prime Minister Theresa May, who is under severe pressure due to poor results in the recent parliamentary elections and criticism for not meeting with the victims of the devastating fire in this residential tower, finally met with some of the injured victims who are hospitalized on Friday. According to Reuters, so far, Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Prince William, and even 91-year-old Queen Elizabeth have met with the victims of this major fire. Sadiq Khan wrote to Theresa May on Friday, stating that people are extremely angry about the slow response of institutions and responsible officials. He added in part of his letter, 'Residents feel that the lack of information about their family members and friends has increased their grief.' He also mentioned that residents of residential towers that use materials similar to those used in Grenfell Tower are now extremely worried that a similar incident could happen to them.