Investigation ongoing following fatal house fire in Bedale Drive, Leicester

An investigation has been launched following a house fire in Bedale Drive, Leicester.

Police were contacted by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service at 4.08am today (Tuesday 10th September) where sadly a person was found deceased within the property.

Others within the address received hospital treatment as a precaution.

A 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the incident but has since been released on bail to allow enquiries to continue. Whilst an arrest has been made, detectives are keeping an open mind and are working closely with colleagues from the fire service to establish the full circumstances leading up to the incident.

Detective Inspector Michael Chandler said: “This is an extremely tragic incident in which a person has sadly lost their life.

“Our investigation is at a very early stage and we are keeping an open mind as to what caused the fire. A dedicated team is carrying out enquiries and we are working closely with the fire service to fully establish what has happened and how it has happened.

“Specially trained officers are also continuing to provide full support to the family of the deceased.

“I understand this incident will have caused distress and concern in the community and officers remain in the area to offer support and reassurance. They are there for you so please do speak with them.

“We continue to speak with the family and residents in the area as part of our enquiries. If you have any information and have not yet spoken to police, then please make contact with us. As well as speaking with officers in the area, you can also report online at www.leics.police.uk or call 101, quoting incident 69 of 10 September. Thank you.”