Detectives are investigating a fatal fire at a flat block in Swindon today.
Emergency services rushed to the substantial first-floor blaze in Welcome Avenue, Park North, at around 10.13am this morning – as first reported by Wiltshire 999s.
A crime scene cordon was quickly established in the area, as two dozen firefighters from four local fire stations – including Swindon, Westlea, Stratton and Royal Wootton Bassett – worked to extinguish the fire.
A man, in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene. His death is not being treated as suspicious, but Wiltshire Police say their investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Six fire crews and an aerial platform appliance were all in attendance alongside ambulances and at least eight marked and unmarked police vehicles.
A crime scene remains in place this afternoon as detectives and forensics comb the property. It’s not yet clear if the fire was accidental or deliberate, but an investigation is ongoing to establish the cause.