Murder Investigation Launched After Fatal House Fire In Cowes

Police are appealing for witnesses following a fatal fire in Cowes in the early hours of this morning.

Officers were called at 3:32am today (Friday 26 June) to reports of a fire at an address on Ronsons Close, Cowes.

Officers attended along with colleagues from Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and Isle of Wight Ambulance, with neighbouring addresses evacuated as a precaution whilst the fire was brought under control.

One person has subsequently been located deceased within the property.

No formal identification has taken place, however next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A file will be prepared for the Coroner.

At this time the cause of the fire is being treated as suspicious.

An investigation has been launched and a 28-year-old man from Ventnor has been arrested on suspicion of murder and arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody at the current time.

A statement from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said:

"We are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time, or has doorbell, dashcam, or CCTV footage that they believe could assist with our investigation to come forward.

"You can do this by calling 101, or by reporting online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website, quoting incident number 44260302232: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

"You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting their website, below: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

"There will be increased Police presence in the area in the coming days whilst initial enquiries are conducted.

"Anyone with any concerns can speak to a uniformed officer."