Croydon fire: Cadet, 13, killed by fire was 'inspirational', says father

“Warm-hearted”: Kuzi Matope, 13, pictured with his father Patrick
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The family of a 13-year-old boy who died in hospital eight days after being trapped in a house fire today paid tribute to the “charismatic and kind” teenager.

Army cadet Kuzivakwashe Celestine Matope, known as Kuzi, was found unconscious in a hallway by fire crews after his family and neighbours had tried to rescue him through his bedroom window.

He was pronounced dead at St George’s Hospital, Tooting, on Tuesday after being kept in intensive care.

His father Patrick and mother Mabie escaped the blaze along with their younger sons Ishmail, nine, and Patrick, three. Today Mr Matope paid tribute to his son, describing him as a “gentle spirit”.

Army cadet Kuzivakwashe Celestine Matope, also known as Kuzi

He told the Standard: “He was loved by many and was charismatic, humorous, kind and warm-hearted. He was a well-behaved young boy who loved family and friends.”

Mr Matope added: “Kuzi was good at making jokes and brought laughter in the family. He was growing spiritually and was an inspiration to many.”

The family are originally from Zimbabwe and moved to the UK in 2015.

David Garrido, the headteacher at St Joseph’s College in Beulah Hill, where Kuzi was in Year 8, said: “Everyone adored him, he had so many awards and commendations for hard work. Kuzi was excelling at every single subject, he was a fantastic member of our community.”

Neighbours rushed to help after spotting smoke coming from the Matopes’ family home in Camden Gardens, Thornton Heath, shortly after 5.30pm on Monday last week.

Maria Ade, 27, who tried to help as neighbours ran a ladder up to the boy’s bedroom window, said: “It is so tragic and I have so many unanswered questions — I wish things could have turned out differently and we are all praying for his family.”

London Fire Brigade today said the cause of the fire was under investigation but there was nothing to suggest it was suspicious.

More than £7,000 has been raised for the family so far.

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