The tragic demise of a family who fell 400 feet from a London high-rise has cast a somber shadow over what was once considered a pinnacle of luxury living. The unfortunate incident unfolded last Wednesday when a man, woman, and child were discovered lifeless in the courtyard after plummeting from a balcony on the 36th floor of a tower block in the Elephant and Castle area of south London.
Residing in the Highpoint tower, the family lived amid 458 lavish apartments primarily occupied by international students hailing from affluent East Asian backgrounds and young professionals from well-to-do circles. This residence, steeped in affluence, starkly contrasts its past when it was described as a ‘hostel from hell’ by over 500 asylum seekers who once called it home.
Following a significant transformation by the Canadian property group, Realstar Living, the building was reborn as UNCLE Elephant and Castle. Today, it stands as an embodiment of luxury with features such as a Sky Lounge offering panoramic views, an on-site gym, a co-working space, and convenient underground parking. The tower also houses a 300-seat theatre leased to the Southwark Playhouse. Proudly claiming to be London’s tallest residential structure, its vistas are said to rival those from the Shard.
The block once housed more than 500 asylum seekers who branded it a ‘hostel from hell’.
But after being redeveloped by Canadian property group Realstar Living and rebranded as UNCLE Elephant and Castle, it now boasts a Sky Lounge top-floor bar, an on-site gym, a co-working space and underground parking.
The block, which now holds a 300-seat theatre leased to the Southwark Playhouse, is said to be London’s tallest residential building and boasts views that ‘make the Shard jealous’.
Residents can see the London Eye, Wembley stadium and the River Thames from their balconies and feel secure with the 24 hour concierge and security service.
One-bedroom studio flats in the block cost £2,700 a month while two-bedroom apartments cost £3,800 a month to rent.
A man, woman and child were found dead last Wednesday after plummeting to their deaths from the 36th floor apartment
The family lived in Highpoint tower, home to 458 opulent apartments mostly rented by international students from wealthy backgrounds in East Asia
Each flat includes a large living, dining and kitchen area decked out with premium Siemens appliances, Danish designer furniture and a yellow-tinted private balcony with glass barriers.
Most of the residents are students studying at local universities, with Kings College London, London South Bank and University of Arts all within walking distance.
Only a few families inhabit the modern apartments.
People living in the block said they were unaware of the identities of the family who died.
‘There is zero community feel here. No one knows their neighbours,’ said one resident.
Residents reported hearing ‘shouts and screams’ from the family’s apartment in the weeks before they fell.
A woman who lives in the building said: ‘I heard shouting and screaming for the past two weeks. It has stopped since Wednesday.
‘Police knocked on the door and asked if I had heard shouting and screaming. I told them yes and I assumed it was a domestic.’
Each flat includes a large living, dining and kitchen area decked out with premium Siemens appliances, Danish designer furniture and a yellow-tinted private balcony with glass barriers
The block is said to be London’s tallest residential building and boasts views that ‘make the Shard jealous’
Some are sceptical of a ‘fall’. One said: ‘It’s impossible even for a tall adult to fall through the glass barriers here. The barriers are higher than chest height.’
Residents were sent an email the day after the tragedy warning them of increased police presence and temporary road closures.
It read: ‘Dear Residents, you may have seen some news about the tragic incident at UNCLE Elephant and Castle Wednesday morning.
‘The incident involved the loss of life, our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragic event. We recognise that incidents of this nature can cause concern and distress within the community, and our thoughts are with everyone who may have been affected.
‘Specialist and dedicated teams from the Metropolitan Police Service are currently investigating the incident and will remain in the area over the coming days while enquiries continue.
‘You may notice an increased police presence, temporary road closures, or restricted access in some locations as this important work is carried out.
‘We understand that events such as this can have a significant impact on individuals, families, and the wider community. Below are some links to support services available for residents who may have been affected, including emotional well-being support and guidance on accessing further assistance.’
A Met Police spokesman said they are investigating the deaths, which are being treated as unexpected, and their next-of-kin have been informed.
Southwark Coroners Court told the Daily Mail: ‘This matter has been referred to this office. The Metropolitan Police are currently conducting their investigation, and we are providing assistance where necessary. No further comment will be made at this stage.’
