Two people have died after a fire destroyed a house in North Shields early Wednesday morning. Emergency services were called to Cragside Avenue at around 3:30am, where they found a man in his 40s and a woman in her 70s. Despite rescue efforts, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigate devastating incident
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Barry McAtominey from Northumbria Police, said: 'This is an absolutely devastating incident in which two people have tragically lost their lives. All of our thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.' He added: 'Enquiries remain at a very early stage, and with the support of our partners from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, we are determined to establish exactly what happened.'
Police have confirmed that next of kin for both victims have been informed. A cordon remains in place and two neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution.
Fire service response
A Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that five appliances attended an incident in North Tyneside. The emergency call came in to our Control Room team at 03:27, and appliances from our Tynemouth, Byker, South Shields and Gosforth Community Fire Stations were dispatched to the North Shields area. The incident involved a fire in a house. Firefighters rescued persons from the property and extinguished the blaze.'
Three ambulances, a rapid response paramedic, a duty officer, a clinical team leader and three hazardous area response team resources were also sent to the scene.
Appeal for information
Detective Inspector McAtominey urged the public: 'We are asking anyone with information – no matter how small or insignificant it may seem – to come forward and share what they know.' The investigation is ongoing with support from fire service partners to determine the cause of the blaze.
