Man dies in West Country house fire as police launch investigation

Another man remains in a serious condition in hospital

An arson investigation has been launched after a man died in a fire at his home. Police officers investigating the incident believe the house fire in which a man in his 70s died may be suspicious.

The fatal house fire happened shortly before 11am on Friday October 4 at an address in Southdown Road in Weymouth, Dorset. Officers attended the address, along with the fire and ambulance services but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. His family has since been informed.

Dorset Police said a man aged in his 60s currently remains in a serious condition in hospital in connection with the house fire.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, from Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team said: "We are treating this fire as suspicious and I am keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any unusual activity in the area of Southdown Road during the morning of Friday October 4, or who has any information that might assist our enquiries.

"A cordon remains in place at the address and there will be an increased policing presence in the area as we continue to investigate this matter. Officers can be approached by members of the public with information or concerns."

He added: "I would urge residents in the vicinity with home CCTV systems or doorbell cameras, as well as motorists with dashcam fitted who may have been in the area, to please review any footage for anything that might help our investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240152830. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.