A packed theatre in Central London was swiftly evacuated on Saturday, 12 April, after an electric rickshaw fire erupted outside, sending thick black smoke billowing into the air. The incident occurred outside the Palace Theatre on Cambridge Circus, where Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is currently showing.
Approximately 50 theatregoers were ushered out of the venue as a safety precaution before fire crews arrived. The dramatic blaze drew the attention of stunned passers-by, several of whom captured video footage showing the rickshaw engulfed in flames.
Emergency services were inundated with calls, as the London Fire Brigade (LFB) received around 35 reports concerning the incident shortly after 6pm. Crews from Soho Fire Station responded promptly and managed to contain the damage exclusively to the rickshaw.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “At just after 1800 on Saturday (12 April), Control Officers received the first of around 35 calls to a fire outside a theatre at Cambridge Circus in Central London.
Firefighters from Soho Fire Station attended and discovered an electric rickshaw fully alight. The fire was safely extinguished with damage contained to the rickshaw only.
Around 50 people evacuated from the theatre before firefighters arrived. The fire is believed to have been caused by the catastrophic failure of lithium-ion battery packs within a rickshaw.”
Rikshaw just exploded into flames in Shaftesbury outside The Other Palace theatre pic.twitter.com/AYFfycCmG4
— Maila | ✨ (@SomethinClub) April 12, 2025
Initial findings suggest that the fire stemmed from a “catastrophic failure” in the rickshaw’s lithium-ion battery packs. These batteries, commonly used in e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar electric vehicles, are known for their high energy density. However, if damaged or improperly charged, they pose a significant fire risk.
The fire brigade explained that such batteries, while efficient, can become volatile under certain conditions. Factors such as overheating, crushing, or overcharging can compromise the integrity of the battery cells, potentially triggering fires or explosions.
In light of the increasing number of incidents involving electric vehicles, the London Fire Brigade launched its #ChargeSafe campaign in Spring 2023. The initiative aims to educate the public on the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, especially in e-bikes and e-scooters, and to help prevent serious injuries or fatalities caused by fires.
While safety remains a top concern for London’s entertainment venues, theatre and cinema enthusiasts may also want to check out the latest UK & Ireland cinema release dates for 2025. The upcoming year promises a packed schedule of major film releases, perfect for those planning their next cultural outing.
