A neighbour has described the moment he tried to console the father of a boy who fell to his death in Plaistow. 

Ansert Davis, who lives in Jacobs House, spoke with PA after the fatal fall today (May 16). 

He said: “I just ran down and tried to speak to the dad but he’s inconsolable.”

This Is Local London: Floral tributes have been laid following the early morning tragedyFloral tributes have been laid following the early morning tragedy (Image: PA Media)Ansert called the emergency services to the scene after the five-year-old fell from an upper floor of the apartment block at around 5.58am this morning. 

He told PA the child's mum was "distraught" and a second neighbour came out to help. 

He said: "It’s so sad, I’ve got a grandkid about this age. Oh my God, it’s like seeing your own kids.”

This Is Local London: The Metropolitan Police are investigating the unexpected deathThe Metropolitan Police are investigating the unexpected death (Image: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)RELATED: Boy fall death: First pictures from scene show floral tributes laid

The neighbour had previously seen the boy play on the swings with his family. 

Newham Council have released a statement on the tragedy, saying: “We are deeply sorry to hear about this devastating incident, we extend our sincere condolences to all those affected.

“We have staff at the location to provide reassurance to residents at this difficult time while we work with partners to establish the full facts.”

The Metropolitan Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal fall.