Grenfell Tower Demolition Continues as Police Prepare Criminal Case Files

Demolition work at Grenfell Tower in west London resumed this week, with heavy machinery operating on the remaining structure. The 24-storey building has stood since the June 2017 fire that killed 72 people. The Metropolitan Police said in May 2026 that all investigative files will be submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service this autumn.

Potential charges under review include corporate gross negligence manslaughter, fraud, health and safety breaches, and misconduct in public office.

Community volunteers continue to maintain artwork and lighting on the hoardings surrounding the site. Melanie Juno Wolf, who works with the North Kensington Community Kitchen, said the installations serve as a gathering point each anniversary. ” The final report of the public inquiry, published in September 2024, concluded the fire was avoidable and placed responsibility on several organisations.

Jafari, whose father died on the eleventh floor, said he continues to experience daily distress nine years later. William 'Joe' Walsh, a resident of the adjacent Silchester Estate for 30 years, also remains at the site. Kensington and Chelsea council leader Elizabeth Campbell stated the authority “could and should have done more” before and after the fire.

Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Kevin Southworth said the investigation has proceeded “relentlessly” since 2017 while remaining on schedule for the autumn file submission.